Obituary for Jerry Lee O'Neal

October 29, 1945 – July 12, 2025

Jerry Lee O'Neal, 79, of Panama City, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, surrounded by loved ones in the city where he was born and spent his life.

Born on October 29, 1945, Jerry was a proud member of the first graduating class of Rutherford High School in 1964. Shortly after, he answered the call to serve his country and did so with honor as a veteran of the United States Army.

Jerry dedicated 33 years of his career to AT&T, working as a lineman and cable splicer before retiring in 2007. He was a loyal member of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local Chapter 3114, where he forged lasting friendships and built a legacy of dedication and hard work.

Beyond his professional life, Jerry was a man of many passions. He found joy in skiing at the lake, hunting, fishing, and camping—activities that brought him peace and a deep connection to the outdoors. He was a regular at Starbucks, always sipping his favorite Pike Place roast and offering a warm smile to those around him.

Jerry's heart was his most defining quality. His love for his family was boundless, especially when it came to "his girls," daughter Kim and granddaughter Abbie. He was the embodiment of tenderness and devotion—a man who showed up with quiet strength and unwavering care. To his nieces and nephews, he will always be remembered as the "coolest uncle ever."

He is survived by his beloved daughter Kim Guy and her husband Charlie, his cherished granddaughter Abbie Guy, his loving sister Annette Rash, and numerous nieces and nephews who adored him. He is preceded in death by his parents, Abbie and Leroy O'Neal, and his brother, James O'Neal.

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025, at Wilson Funeral Home, 214 Airport Road, Panama City, Florida. Visitation with family and friends will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 2:00 p.m., led by Pastor Carl Fondren. Jerry will be laid to rest at Evergreen Memorial Gardens immediately following the service.

Serving as pallbearers will be Ron Von Thun, Mike Suggs, David Adams, Mark Banks, Ricky Rash, and Charlie Guy. Honorary pallbearers include Wayne Goodwin, Fred Croon and Mike Nixon.

Jerry's presence, kindness, and unwavering love will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.