USAF Ray C. O'Neal
February 26, 1926 - September 4, 2012
Memorials: In lieu of flowers memorials to the American Cancer Society are appreciated. Jumbo, as he was known to his friends, was born in Morris, IL. He attended Girard High School in Girard, IL, and upon graduation, enlisted in the Army Air Corps and served during WWII. Upon discharge in 1946, he attended the University of Illinois and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the US Army. He secured an interservice transfer to the US Air Force in 1949 and became a pilot. He flew multiple aircraft through three decades of service including combat missions in Korea, Vietnam and the Cold War. He retired as a Wing Commander in 1974. He loved golf, flying, sports and girls. Survivors: His loving wife of 60 years, Marian, his children, Michael (Doreen) O'Neal, Challie (Stephen) Samaras, Timothy (Jennifer), Sean (Beth), Ray C. (Audrey) O'Neal II, his grandchildren, Courtney, Erin (Shingo), David, Caitlin, Devin, Christina, Shannon, Patrick, Timothy, Jr., Sophia, Ray III, his great grandchildren, Amaya, Janaya, brother-in-law, Edwin (Alta) Forshage, and sister-in-law, Carol (Bill) McClusky.
Memorials: In lieu of flowers memorials to the American Cancer Society are appreciated. Jumbo, as he was known to his friends, was born in Morris, IL. He attended Girard High School in Girard, IL, and upon graduation, enlisted in the Army... View Obituary & Service Information