Tommy Laverne O'Neal

Tommy Laverne O’Neal, age 69, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026. A visitation will be held at Belk Funeral Home on Monday, April 20th from 3:00 to 4:00pm. With funeral services to follow in the chapel at 4:00pm. Family will receive visitors at other times, at the home of Wade O’Neal at 418 Redwood Street in Darlington.

Born on September 22, 1956 in Darlington, SC. Laverne lived a life defined by generosity, craftsmanship, and deep love for his family.

He was the beloved son of the late Tommy Lee O’Neal and Jeanette Broach Funderburk. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Dorothy O’Neal Flowers, and nephews, TJ O’Neal and Ethan Harrell.

Laverne is survived by his loving children, son Aaron O’Neal and daughter Jessica O’Neal, of Shelby Township, Michigan. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Alice Genevieve O’Neal, Aaron Wade O’Neal, Hazel Patyk O’Neal, and Hunter Lee Brockway. His grandchildren brought him immense joy, especially sharing a birthday with Alice—a gift he often said was the best he had ever received.

He is also survived by his sisters, Bonnie (Mike) Loupo and Susan (Mark) Parker, and his brothers, Bobby O’Neal, Toby O’Neal, Wade O’Neal (Dianne), David O’Neal, and Alan O’Neal, all of Darlington, South Carolina. Including numerous nieces and nephews.

Laverne was a skilled fabricator with a remarkable ability to build and restore almost anything. He had a passion for working with his hands, bringing new life to old things, and took pride in his craftsmanship. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing and collecting antiques.

More than anything, Laverne will be remembered for his selfless heart. He gave freely to others, never expecting anything in return, and would truly give the shirt off his back to help someone in need. His life was a reflection of unconditional love—something he passed on to his children and grandchildren, who carry forward his legacy of kindness, compassion, and generosity.

Laverne’s memory will live on in the lives he touched and the love he gave so freely.