Doris Mae O'Neil's Obituary
Doris Mae O’Neil (née Turner) was born on May 22, 1935 in McCaskill Arkansas to parents Horace and Queen Esther Turner. Doris and her twin brother Horace were the fourth and fifth children born to Horace and Queen Esther. Horace and Queen Esther would eventually welcome five more children to the family.
Seeking more advantage and opportunity for their family Horace and Queen Esther left Arkansas in the early 1940’s. Upon arriving in California they initially settled in Berkeley and shortly thereafter the family moved to Oakland.
Doris attended Oakland Public Schools, graduating from McClymonds High School in 1953. She attended San Francisco State University for a time. However, a relationship that was kindled at McClymonds grew and Doris’ studies at SF State took a back seat. She married a tall and handsome young man by the name of Leroy O’Neil on March 3, 1955. Doris and Leroy remained joined in marriage until Leroy’s death on February 22, 2021.
Doris and Leroy had three children, Johnnie, Marsha and Robert. Doris devoted her time, effort and energy in making a home for her family. She was an excellent cook and seamstress. Many have savored and have fond memories of her peach cobbler, sweet potato pie and German Chocolate cake.
She was also known for her generosity, kindness and willingness to be of assistance. Doris always made time for anyone who needed her. Doris was also a woman of faith. She was an active Jehovah’s Witness for over 60 years. She visited many in the Oakland community sharing the Bible’s message of a better future to come by means of God’s Kingdom.
Doris is loved by many who will greatly miss her.
She is survived by her daughter Marsha, son-in-law Jerry, four grandchildren, four great grandchildren, two sisters, a host of nieces, nephews, spiritual family and friends.
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