Mrs. Wanda "Roni" O'Neal

Wanda “Roni” O’Neal was a loving, caring and patient wife, mother, friend, sister, and keeper of secrets. She left this world on February 10, 2022 at the age of 81. She was born to Magnus and Laura Freels on May 31, 1941 in Lansing, TN. After the family added baby Roger, they moved to Lima, OH in the later 1940’s. Roni graduated from Lima Senior Highschool before continuing onto Long Beach, CA, where she earned her degree in Nursing and went on to practice in OH, TN and other states. Roni bowled on many different leagues in the 60’s and attended Lima Missionary Church. Her love for Gospel and Country Music was well known, but was overshadowed by her love for flowers and gardening. Roni was lately a member of New Harvest Church in Maryville, TN. She attended often when she was not on the road. However, her many interests did not stop there. Her father Magnus had been a Car-Hauling Truck Driver, and therefore she successfully learned to operate big rigs as well. After 40+ years as a truck driver, making runs in 48 states and parts of Canada, as well as 15 years as a team driver with her husband, she parked her rig for the last time in Loudon, TN. Roni is preceded in death by her father, Magnus Freels, mother Laura Freels, and brother Roger Freels. She is survived by her husband, Larry M. O’Neal, only son Dr. Nicholas Phillips, PhD, one uncle, several cousins, and many other friends and family. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mrs. Wanda "Roni" O'Neal please visit our Sympathy Store.