Obituary

James Francis O’Neill
September 11, 1937 – June 23, 2024

Jim O’Neill, 86, of Dana Point, CA, passed away after spending a lovely day with his wife Kathy Lucey-O’Neill, his two sons, and two other family members.

Semper Fidelis was Jim O’Neill to the core.

Born in Cleveland, OH to his Irish immigrant parents, Michael and Mary, Jimmy was raised to be loving and loyal to his family, their faith and his Irish culture forming a close bond with his sisters, Maureen (Brennan), Peggy, and Anne (Burns). His first marriage to Deidre (McDonald), who predeceased him, was long and loving where he thoroughly enjoyed her large family and vice versa. He was extremely generous and gregarious, welcoming family or strangers into his heart and home. This continued even when Jim and Deidre moved across the country to Dana Point, CA; his last relocation in his distinguished career, retiring as Vice President of Labor Relations for Roadway Express Trucking Company. Jim unfortunately suffered the loss of Deidre soon after that move, but another chapter of friendship, love and loyalty was still coming. Years later he was blessed to find Kathy Lucey whom he eventually married, easily welcoming another family into his.

He was vibrant and courageous throughout his life with a thirst for travel, skiing, sailing, learning and countless other adventures. Jimmy actually taught himself to ski and sail then taught his kids who then taught their kids. He had a drive to be the first in his family to go to college which was so strong that even while working his full time job at East Ohio Gas Company he earned his BS in Management from Fenn College (now Cleveland State University). A devout University of Notre Dame supporter, he watched every football game he could, regularly traveling to South Bend to watch them. Jimmy even proposed to Kathy at the Grotto there. He would invite anyone and everyone else along on his adventures, often paying their way. He was seldom intimidated by anyone and was always ready to forge ahead facing any challenge. All these traits imprinted well on his family who definitely embody them.

It’s no wonder that he proudly joined the US Marine Corps after high school. He served honorably during two tours on a carrier in the Mediterranean until being called back home to be the man of the house when his father passed away. Though serving for just a short time, the vein for loyalty to the Marines was lifelong. He became a fixture at Camp Pendleton helping Marines and their families in many different ways. This included being a Commandant of the Marine Corps League in San Clemente and as a surrogate father figure for young Marines, their spouses and children.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Kathy Lucey-O’Neill, his children Michael (Megan) O’Neill, Tara (Marty) Lavelle and Shane (Krista) O’Neill; and his step-children Patrick Lucey and Shay (Jason) Galloway. Jim’s grandchildren are Katie (Chris) Schultz, Colin (Katherine) O’Neill, Mary Casey O’Neill, Seamus O’Neill, Deidre Lavelle, Finn O’Neill, Rory Lavelle, Hays Galloway, Brynn Galloway and great-grandchildren Nora O’Neill and Micah Schultz. Jimmy’s face absolutely lit up at just the mention of each of his grandchildren. Recently he was able to teach and play Blackjack with several of his grandkids, marvel at the Rubik’s cube solving skills by another and meet his newborn great-granddaughter.

Jimmy leaves the following words of wisdom to guide his family. “Act enthusiastic and you’ll be enthusiastic”. Remember to “DIRTFT” (Do It Right The First Time), especially on your homework! Lastly, “Most people don’t plan to fail, they fail to plan”. He was such a planner.

If there are spelling errors or made up words, Jim would forgive us and allow us the ‘poetic’ license’ to do so. He was notorious for this and also passed this to his offspring.

Jimmy, you will be deeply missed by all who knew you. We know your bedside table is stocked with chocolates and your freezer is full of butter pecan ice cream.

Semper Fi!

A Funeral Mass will be held August 2nd, 2024 at Saint Edward the Confessor Church, 11 a.m. (33926 Calle La Primavera, Dana Point, CA 92629). The interment will follow at Miramar National Cemetery, 2:30 p.m. (5795 Nobel Drive, San Diego, CA 92122).

To honor his legacy best, in lieu of flowers please donate to The Wounded Warrior Project, the Marine Corps League, or whichever arm of the US Military you choose.