John Patrick O’Neill, Jr., 80, of Beaumont, died Friday, October 21, 2011, at Jefferson Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. He was a native and resident of Beaumont born to Hilda Mavis Wolston O’Neill and John Patrick O’Neill, Sr. on March 28, 1931.
He attended St. Anne Catholic School in his elementary years and was a graduate of St. Anthony High School. John was united in marriage to Mary Ann Morrison on September 27, 1952, at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church. A veteran of the Korean conflict, he was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served his country, being stationed in Germany. He furthered his education at Lamar University, attaining a Bachelor of Science Degree in Geology in 1955 and an Engineering Degree in 1963. John was employed at Phillips Petroleum, Gulf Oil, Chevron and Petrocon as a Mechanical Engineer and was a member of American Society of Mechanical Engineers. He was always proud that he was an Eagle Scout.
His love of nature, particularly the beach and of Texas was exhibited at his Crystal Beach home, which he and his brothers constructed. It was a personal great loss when the home was totally destroyed during Hurricane Ike in 2008.
Survivors include his wife of fifty-nine years, Ann Morrison O’Neill of Beaumont; their children, Martha Hood and her husband, Hugh of Waco, Pat O’Neill and his wife, Darlene of Beaumont and Chris O’Neill and his wife, Julie of Humble; grandchildren, Katie O’Neill and Molly Grace O’Neill, both of Beaumont and Elizabeth O’Neill and Sarah O’Neill, both of Humble; brothers, Bill O’Neill and his wife, Bertha and Mike O’Neill and his wife, Tina, all of Beaumont; and many other loving family members and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Paul Thomas O’Neill.
A gathering of his family and friends will begin at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, October 23, 2011, with a Rosary recited at 4:00 p.m., at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m., Monday, October 24, 2011, at St. Anne Catholic Church, 2715 Calder Avenue, Beaumont, with a gathering to follow in the parish hall. A family committal service will follow.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Anne Catholic School, 375 North 11th Street, Beaumont, Texas 77702-1834.
