Thomas Hendricks O’Neal passed away peacefully on September 24, 2024, at home surrounded by his family.
He was the beloved son of Lillian Fullen and Edwin Sherrill O’Neal, born on Nov. 5, 1942. A lifelong resident of Chattanooga, he attended Missionary Ridge Elementary, The Baylor School, The University of Chattanooga (a member of Kappa Sigma), and received his Doctor of Jurisprudence from The University of Tennessee. He practiced law in Chattanooga for over 50 years.
An ardent Democrat, Tom campaigned for the re-election of Senator Al Gore, Sr., after which time he was invited to a gathering at the home of Senator Ted Kennedy in McLean, Va., where he met and befriended many prominent Democrats of the day. He also traveled throughout Tennessee campaigning for Bob Summitt’s bid for Congress, eventually going to work with Bob at Coffey & Summitt – his first job out of law school. His expertise, devotion to personal injury law and passion for helping people in need was widely known and respected.
Tom raised his family on Signal Mountain where his natural joy in life stemmed from caring for his children at home, at his farm and at the beach. As a young father, he was a member of St. Paul’s Episcopal; later, Pilgrim Congregational; and recently attended the Abide Program at First Centenary Methodist. He was a prayerful man of faith, a great father and husband, and a true friend.
He was predeceased by his parents and by his brother, Edwin Charles O’Neal.
He is survived by his wife, Juliane; his former wife, Pamela, his four children: Laura Staver (Dave), Amy Anderson, Erin Hogue (Jason), and Tom Jr., (Louisa Rose); seven grandchildren (and one on the way); one great-grandchild (and one on the way); his stepdaughters, Suzanne Bishop and Vanessa Bishop; one step granddaughter; and several nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to First Centenary Methodist Church’s Abide Program; Hearth Hospice; or Legal Aid of East Tennessee.
The family will receive friends from 4-5 p.m. at First Centenary Methodist Church in Chattanooga on Oct. 15, with a Celebration of Life service beginning at 5 p.m. A reception will follow. All are welcome.
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, Tn. 37343.