Ocracoke native David Fletcher O’Neal, known as Fletcher, 51, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2026, in Norfolk, Virginia.
Born on February 20, 1975, in Newport News, VA, Fletcher lived a life deeply connected to the waters and the Ocracoke community.
Fletcher dedicated many years as an engineer with the NCDOT Ferry Division. After his retirement, he pursued his passion for the sea as an oyster farmer and an avid waterman, and he cherished his time on the water.
His love of farming oysters and boating was well known among his family and friends. He was actively involved in the Shellfish Growers Association and the Ocracoke Working Watermen’s Association.
Fletcher is preceded in death by his beloved son, Henry O’Neal; his mother, Doris Kathryn Hoggard O’Neal; his paternal grandparents, David and Peggy Ann O’Neal; his maternal grandfather, F.C. “Hoagie” Hoggard; and his aunt, Jean Williams.
He is survived by his maternal grandmother, Merian Hoggard; his father, David Farrow O’Neal, Jr.; his daughter, Maranda O’Neal; his four sons, David Hunter O’Neal, Ethan O’Neal, Brandt O’Neal, and William O’Neal; and his grandson, Dakota Barnett. He also leaves behind his sister, Rachel O’Neal, and her son, Austin O’Neal; his aunt, Sharon Justice, and his uncle, Vince O’Neal (Sue); his cousins, Eric Williams (Diana and their daughter, Emma Jean Williams), Robbie Lewis (Claudia and their daughter, Camryn Lewis), and Katie Brown, Carson O’Neal, and Noah O’Neal, who will fondly remember him.
A funeral service to honor Fletcher’s life will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, in the Ocracoke Life Saving Church. Following the service, the family will greet friends and relatives at the Ocracoke Community Center. A private burial will take place at the Ocracoke Community Cemetery.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks, is serving the O’Neal family. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
