Daniel Allan O'Neal

Daniel Allan O’Neal, 77, of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, passed away on October 28, 2026. Born on August 8, 1949, Daniel was the son of the late Jennings Talbert O’Neal and Ruby Denton O’Neal. He grew up alongside his older brother, Frederick, and his twin brother, David, and attended Vaiden Whitley High School in Wendell, North Carolina where he graduated towards the top of his class. Daniel proudly served his country in the North Carolina Army National Guard from 1969-1975. Upon completion of his military service, he received an Associates Degree in Computer Programming from Wake Technical Community College. From there, he went on to build a distinguished 30-year career at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he served as Associate Director of Administrative Data Processing until his retirement. A lifelong Tar Heel fan, Daniel’s connection to UNC extended beyond his professional years.

He has been a men’s basketball season ticket holder since 1974 where he witnessed many great victories, some heartbreaking losses, and developed his great admiration and respect for Coach Dean Smith.

On June 24, 1972, Daniel married Jackie, beginning a loving partnership that spanned more than 54 years. Together they built a life centered on family, friendship, and the Chapel Hill community.

Daniel was outgoing, quick witted, and never met a stranger. His sharp intellect, strong work ethic, and natural ability to connect with people were among his defining qualities. Whether sharing a clever remark, striking up conversation with someone new, or spending time with those closest to him, Daniel brought warmth, humor, and genuine friendship wherever he went. Above all, he was fiercely loyal to family and friends and was quick to help anyone become the greatest version of themself.

An avid golfer and enthusiastic reader, Daniel appreciated both an engaging challenge and life’s quieter moments. He enjoyed working in his yard, tending to his plants and relaxing with preferably a view of the mountains or beach. While his interests were many, nothing brought him greater joy than his family, especially his five beloved grandchildren. As a grandfather, he could not think of anywhere he would rather be than on the sidelines or in the stands cheering on and supporting his grandchildren in all of their various activities.

Daniel is survived by his beloved wife, Jackie Wainwright O’Neal; his son Matthew O’Neal and his wife Andrea; his daughter, JoBeth O’Neal Marriott, and her husband Matthew Marriott; and his five cherished grandchildren, Wells and Henry O’Neal and Ruby, Thomas, and Davis Marriott. He is also survived by his twin brother, David Oliver O’Neal, along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jennings Talbert and Ruby Denton O’Neal, and his older brother, Frederick Talbert O’Neal.

Daniel will be remembered for his quick wit, generous spirit, unwavering loyalty, and the love he shared so freely with his family and friends. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the family he treasured. His children will remember him as a father that led by example and with love and one they knew was always right there with them in whatever life brought their way.

A celebration of life will be held to honor Daniel at The Story in Chapel Hill, 450 W Franklin St. Chapel Hill, NC 27516 on Saturday December 5th from 12:00-3:00 pm. All are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer's Association .