Theodore O'Neal

Mr. Ted O’Neal passed in his sleep at home in Nashville August 31st from heart failure. It was his 79th birthday.  Ted is survived by his three daughters Jill Coon (Robert) of Nashville, Cathleen Eagle (Keith) of Apex, NC, and Jennifer Morris (Boyd) of Cartersville, GA. His three beloved granddaughters are Sophie and Madeline Morris, and Grace Eagle. Ted is preceded in death by his parents Irene Coffelt O’Neal, and Luther G. O’Neal Jr. of Chattanooga. Ted was born and raised in Chattanooga, TN. He graduated from Tyner High School in 1961 where he was voted Captain of the football team and Mr. Tyner. At the University of Tennessee Chattanooga he wrestled and competed in weight lifting and was a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. He served as a Marine after high school that facilitated his role as Pledge Master with Sigma Chi. Passionate about science and engineering, Ted found his career path in the architectural and commercial lighting industry. After learning the ropes at Westinghouse Electric, Ted lit up Nashville by starting his own lighting agency, O’Neal Lighting, which thrived for over four decades.

Along the way, Ted enjoyed life to the fullest. He was very proud of his time in the military as a gunnery sergeant with the Howitzer Battery. His life long interest in health and fitness was manifested as a runner and swimmer. He loved skiing vacations in Aspen and Vail and enjoyed years of fun times in Destin. Ted’s beloved Pomeranian, Coco, was never out of his sight.

It was Ted’s wish to be cremated so no service will be held at this time; a Celebration of Life will be  Saturday, October 23, 2021 @ Sportsman's  Lodge and Grille (615) 373-1070 Brentwood, TN ,1640 Westgate Circle. The Family is extremely grateful to Lisa, Theresa and Esther of Alive Hospice for their compassionate and professional care and support. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Nashville Humane Association.