Beverly Louise O'Neal

Beverly Louise O’Neal of Terry, MS passed away August 21, 2023 in Jackson, MS after a lengthy illness. 

Mrs. O’Neal was born and grew up in Jackson, MS where she graduated from Provine High School in 1970.  She married the love of her life, Wayne O’Neal, in 1975, celebrating their 48^th wedding anniversary in May of this year: “48 years married, 50 years in love”. They lived in Jackson until 1990, then moved to Terry, MS, where they have made their home on the lake for the past 33 years.

Upon graduation from high school, Beverly began a long and dedicated career in the telecommunications industry. Starting as a Mail Clerk with the then-named South Central Bell, she held many positions throughout her tenure, maintaining continuous employment even as the company underwent numerous changes throughout the years. Later under BellSouth, she served as a Mainframe Computer Operator, Repair Clerk, and Field Technician Dispatcher, ultimately retiring as a Buried Service Wire Administrator with the current company, AT&T. Beverly was a member of The Telephone Pioneers of America and The Communication Workers of America for the entirety of her 48-year career. She loved her job and was proud of her longevity with “Ma Bell”.

The center of Beverly’s world was family. She was a loving caregiver for her mother, mother-in-law, and beloved aunt. She most loved the spirited family get-togethers in years past that included her many aunts, uncles, and cousins, where the usually quiet Beverly was among the loudest and most fun-loving. Her high-pitched laugh, big smile, and joy in being with the family will be missed by all. As one cousin said “Beverly has been the heart and soul of this family, immediate and extended…”

Mrs. O’Neal was preceded in death by her dear mother, Roberta Roberts Barnes; mother-in-law Flora O’Neal; nieces Layla Barnes and Delia Barnes Kelty; and sisters-in-law Dee Barnes, Brenda O’Neal Calder, and Marie Barnes.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 48 years, Wayne O’Neal; brothers Franz Michael Barnes (Karen) and Richard C. Barnes; nephew Ricky Barnes; nieces Candise Barnes Walker (Sean), Angela Lollis (John) and Tammy Gomez (Tito); great-niece Larkyn Walker; sister-in-law Carolyn Barnes, and special cousins Tony Thornton and Alton Harvey, as well as many beloved cousins and extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a charity of your choice.

A special thank-you to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Advanced Heart Care, UMMC, for their compassionate care.

Services:  A Visitation/Gathering of Family and Friends will be held Saturday, August 26, 2023 at Chancellor Funeral Home, Byram, MS from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m.