James Edward O’Neal, age 69, of Columbia formerly of Dixon, was born on May 8, 1957, in Pulaski County, a son of James Patrick and Anna Ellen “Wolfe” O’Neill, and departed this life on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at his residence in Columbia.

James was preceded in death by his father, Pat; his mother, Ellen; and one brother, Michael O’Neill.

He had been a linen attendant for over 14 years with the University of Missouri Hospital, Columbia.

Those left to mourn the passing of James include: his companion, Bessie Christianson, Columbia; son, James O’Neill; step-son, Izaiah Smith; brothers, Dwight O’Neill and Stephanie, Tom O’Neill, Jack O’Neill and Pat, Randy O’Neill, and Jerry O’Neill; sisters, Louise O’Neal and Delbert Becker, Laurene Atterberry, Linda Cochran and Mike Rennger, and Sharon and Keith Henry; several nephews, nieces; and other relative and friends.

In following James’ wishes, the family elected cremation under the direction of the Martin-Kloeppel Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Dixon.