Jessie O'Neal

Jessie Jackson O'Neal, affectionately known as Jessie to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025. Born on March 21, 1936, in Dothan, Alabama, Jessie's life was one of devotion, service, and love, traits that illuminated the lives of all who knew her.

Jessie's early life in Dothan was filled with the warmth of a close-knit family. She was born to the late John Will Jackson and Jessie Beatrice Jackson and was the sister to her late brothers, John O. Jackson (Melba), Billy J. Jackson, Herbert V. Jackson, Henry G. Jackson, and Charles D. Jackson, Sr. (Frances). Despite the loss of her beloved family members, Jessie's spirit remained unshaken as she continued to spread love and kindness to everyone she encountered.

Jessie and her late husband, Dr. Harry L. O'Neal, Jr’s love story led them to embark on a journey of adoption of their 3 loving daughters, Sandra Cundith (Tim), Erin Belinda Bethea, and Diana Brown. Together they built a getaway at Compass Lake to make memories with family and friends. Jessie's legacy is carried on by her grandchildren, Brantley (Michael) Wood, Hayden Bethea, Maggie Bethea, and Justin Walding; her great-grandchild, Bracken Walding; and her sisters-in-law, Mary Jean Jackson and Jeri Jackson. She is also survived by Ann Walden Jackson, who was like a sister to her. She was preceded in death not only by her husband and parents but also by her daughter, Diana Brown, who passed away on November 15, 2021. Jessie's memory will also be cherished by a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family members.

After graduating from Dothan High School in 1954, Jessie embarked on a career as a Civil Service Worker at Ft. Rucker, where she played a vital role in the Flight Board. Her professional journey later transitioned to working alongside her late husband, Dr. Harry L. O'Neal, Jr., as the administrator at O'Neal Chiropractic Life Center. It was there that her meticulous nature and unwavering support were truly appreciated.

Jessie's life was a testament to her faith. A devout Christian, she was a pillar of the First Presbyterian Church in Dothan, Alabama. She maintained a cherished circle of Church family, family, work family, and community.

She developed a love for flowers and gardening from her mother, which reflected the beauty and care she brought into the world. Jessie's talents extended to the piano, which she played with grace and joy. Her home was a hub of love, where she relished spending time with her family and friends. Friends and neighbors often remarked on the warmth that seemed to emanate from her doorstep – a testament to Jessie’s generous spirit and unwavering kindness. Her laughter filled every gathering, and her keen sense of humor could brighten the grayest of days.

Described by those who knew her as faith-filled, loving, and selfless, Jessie's impact on the world was profound. Her selfless nature was evident in every aspect of her life, from her dedication to her family to her involvement in her church and community. She was a woman who put the needs of others before her own, and her presence was a source of strength and comfort to many.

A celebration of Jessie’s life will be held at 11am on Friday, July 18, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church with Pastor Caleb Galloway officiating. The family will be receiving friends at the church an hour prior to the service. Jessie will be laid to rest in the Memory Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Hayden Bethea, Gary Hughes, Britton Hughes, Chuck Jackson, Fred Hanners, and Will Hanners.