Lydia D. O'Neal

Lydia O’Neal passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026. She spent most of her adult life in and around Abilene. After graduating from Hamlin High School, she started her first job with Southwestern Bell Telephone as a telephone operator. After thirty-eight years she retired to spend time with her grandkids and enjoy numerous hobbies and church activities.

Lydia was preceded in death by her parents, John and Precious O’Neal of Hamlin; her brother, Bobby O’Neal of Abilene; and grandson, Brent Metcalf of Abilene. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Sherie and Don Metcalf of Abilene; son, Mark Jones of Colorado; grandchildren, Kristen and Chris Barnett of Clyde, Tara and John Bontke of Abilene, Terry and Paticia Jones of Carrollton; Brian and Courtney Metcalf of Clyde, and Katelyn Jones of Fort Worth; and eight great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the staff of Home Instead, Avir LTC facility and Hendrick Hospice nurses, for keeping her as comfortable as possible during the last stages of her life. She was so thankful for all the care that you gave her during her last journey.

We would also like to thank the staff and residents at University Place in Abilene. She made many friends and loved playing games with you all. She truly considered you all great friends/family. She loved you all so much.

Graveside services will be 1:00 PM on April 18, 2026 at the Hamlin Memorial Cemetery.