Dr. Jerald Drew O’Neal, beloved husband, father, brother, physician, and devoted follower of Christ, passed away peacefully at his home at the age of 70.
His life was marked not only by service and love, but also by remarkable resilience as he faced 20 years of health struggles, including cancer and Parkinson’s disease. He met every hardship with strength, dignity, and unwavering faith.
Born September 7, 1955, in Coral Gables, Florida, Drew grew up in a home where faith and service were part of everyday life. With missionary parents, Ernest and Edna O’Neal, much of his childhood was spent surrounded by ministry. Wherever they lived, family was the center of it all, and Drew remained deeply connected to his siblings, Suzie, Peggy, and Tom.
Drew graduated from Asbury College and went on to earn his medical degree from the University of Kentucky. For more than 37 years he cared for his patients at Oyster Point Family Practice, known for his gentle spirit, steady presence, and dedication to the people he served.
While Drew gave much of himself to his work and community, his heart was most at home with his wife, Kim. Together they spent many happy years exploring Virginia’s back roads, small towns, and quiet local eateries—moments that filled their lives with laughter and love. Theirs was a love that was both tender and enduring, and it carried them through every season of life.
Drew is survived by his devoted wife of 45 years, Kim O’Neal, and their children, Kathryn Day, Suzanne Hayes, Jennifer O’Neal, and Drew O’Neal. He also leaves behind two beloved sons-in-law, Steven Day and Jeremy Hayes, and eleven cherished grandchildren, who brought him immense joy. Drew is also survived by his siblings, Suzie, Peggy, and Tom, with whom he shared a deep and enduring bond.
The O’Neal family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Sonship Home Group, who loved them so well, to James Chever, who lovingly cared for Drew, and to Riverside Hospice—especially Taylor, Jes, and Marie—for their compassion and support during his final season.
A Memorial Service will be held at 1:30pm on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at Peninsula Community Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Summit Christian Academy or Operation Mobilization in Drew’s memory.
