June Howard O'Neal

June Violet Howard O’Neal

March 9, 1931 – August 5, 2025

"Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the woman whose quiver is full." – Psalm 127:4–5

June Howard O’Neal, beloved mother, grandmother, and matriarch, passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior in Valdosta, Georgia, at the age of 94.

Born Violet June Howard on March 9, 1931, in Greenville, South Carolina, June was the daughter of Sunnie Rice Howard and Thomas Howard. She was named Miss Valdosta in 1946 and graduated from Valdosta High School in 1947.

She later met and married her sweetheart, Glenn O’Neal Sr., with whom she shared 71 years.

Together, June and Glenn built a life marked by hard work, humility, and an unwavering devotion to their family and faith. Whether helping run the dairy farm, O’Neals Okra King, or O’Neals Country Buffet, June served as a true operator behind the scenes. But her most sacred calling was that of “Mama June.” Whether in the restaurant or around her own kitchen table, she was known for her open door and open heart. There was always a place to sit, always something to eat, and always love to be shared. Her cooking fed stomachs, but her presence nourished souls. June offered a seat at her table, a listening ear, and a quiet, unwavering grace that made everyone who met her feel like family.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Glenn O’Neal Sr.; her parents; and her siblings: Patsy Howard, Connie (Charles) Caulderwood, Danny Howard, and Joe (Ailene) Howard.

June is survived by her seven adored children: Glenn (Wyndy) O’Neal Jr., Danny (Sharon) O’Neal, Lonnie O’Neal, Gary (Vicky) O’Neal, Pat O’Neal, Glenda (James) Brooks, and Sunnie (Mike) Bland; her nineteen grandchildren: Kristy (Joel) Bailey, Stephanie (Mark) Daughtrey, Jennifer (Mike) Sumner, Steven O’Neal (Billy Chavez), Katie (Jay) Tienda, Trish (Robert) Roe, Danna (Shane) Giddens, Trey O’Neal, Keri (Ryan) English, Patrick (Cassie) O’Neal, Jeanna (Colby) Dozier, Michelle Moser, Jimmy (Teri) O’Neal, Nicky O’Neal, Bethany (Shane) Lee, Zachary Bland, David O’Neal, Sarah (Charles) Lisk, and Tyler O’Neal

She will be remembered by her twenty-three great grandchildren, Lauren Bailey, Amber (Matthew) Melton, Megan (Patrick) Eason, Madison Sumner, Payten Sumner, Austin Tienda, Ethan Tienda, Kylie Roe, Hanna (Austin) Camp, Aubri Giddens, Mackenzie Giddens, Cameron English, Connor English, Wren O’Neal, Abby O’Neal, Isabella Dozier, Skyler O’Neal, Ayden Lee, Isaac Lee, Judah Lee, Emma June O’Neal, Harrison Lisk, and Hudson O’Neal; along with her three great-great grandchildren: Sadie Melton, Bradley Eason and Andrew Giddens; and her special niece Bonnie Johnson; and numerous other nieces and nephews.

She was lovingly cared for by: Sherie Maine, Julie Ives, Jaden Hylton, and Lauren Bailey.

June delighted in singing hymns, playing piano, fishing, and keeping in touch with her dear, lifelong friends Audrey Dasher and Elsie Middleton. She had a love for beautiful things—especially when shared with the people she loved.

June was a faithful servant of the Lord and called Gloryhill Cowboy Church her church home. Her quiver was full, and her life was poured out in love. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and quiet strength that will guide generations to come.

Funeral services will be held at 2pm on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Redland Baptist Church, with burial to follow at Redland Baptist Church Cemetery beside her beloved husband. The family will visit on Friday from 5-8pm at Redland Baptist Church. The family kindly requests flowers be sent to Carson McLane Funeral Home, and donations may be made to Gloryhill Cowboy Church, 3029 Pecan Plantation Road, Valdosta, GA 31601.

Online condolences can be shared at www.mclanefuneralservices.com.

Carson McLane Funeral Home is honored to assist the O’Neal family.