Dr. James “Jim” Morris O’Neal, 81, passed peacefully on Monday, Jan. 6, 2020. at his home in Oxford.  Jim was preceded in death by his parents Lucien and Inez O’Neal of McComb, Miss.

 

Jim loved the field of chemistry and earned degrees in the science field from Tulane University, The University of Mississippi, culminating with a Ph.D. from The University of Southern Mississippi.

 

Most recently serving as a chemistry professor at The University of Mississippi, Jim enjoyed a long and diverse professional career including teaching positions at Grand Valley State University in Michigan, The University of Louisiana at Monroe, and the U.S. Army Chemical School at Fort McClellan, Ala., where he served as an active duty officer in the rank of Captain.

 

Jim was a proud member of the Epsilon Xi Chapter of Sigma Nu Fraternity.  He enjoyed dancing, playing the Hammond Organ, German Shepherds, and Amateur Radio.  His primary love was teaching, and his cherished reward was observing the character and career development of his students for over six decades, many with whom he developed lifelong friendships.

 

Jim and his memories are survived by his many close friends, colleagues, and cousins Bob and Reda O’Neal.  73s to my best friend W5JMO. Until we meet again, rest in peace.

 

The funeral will be held on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2020, at 10 a.m. in the Chapel of Waller Funeral Home in Oxford.  Visitation will be held prior to the service at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until service time. The graveside service will be held Monday, Jan. 13, 2020, at 1 p.m. in Hollywood Cemetery in McComb.

 

For further information or to leave an online condolence, please call 662.234.7971 or visit www.wallerfuneralhome.com.