Oneal Downing passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior on October 10, 2026, while surrounded by her loved ones. Oneal was born on September 2, 1936, in Lumberton, North Carolina to the late Gussie Lee and Berta Cox Lee. Her life was lived graciously in service to God and to others. Her example was one of steadfast devotion to her family and friends.

Oneal was a faithful wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose life exemplified the Proverbs 31 woman.  She "clothed herself with strength" and "worked diligently with her hands," (Proverbs 31:17) every day of her life. Oneal faithfully "looked well to the ways of her household," and was never idle. (Proverbs 31:27).

Oneal will always be remembered for her inner strength and quiet resilience. She truly honored God by serving others with her entire heart. Her life exemplified genuine humility and grace, and her family and all who knew her will never forget the many ways she consistently considered the needs of others before her own. Oneal's memory and legacy will imprint her family and friends forever, and she will always be treasured in their hearts.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James Arthur Downing; her sisters, Eula Mae Britt and Pauline Williamson; as well as an infant brother.

She is survived by her son, Charles Downing (Judi); her daughter, Gail Tanner (Tommy); her grandchildren: Cameron (David), Pamela, Kimberly (Joshua), and Taylor; and great-grandchildren, Ben and Ellie Mae, all of North Carolina.

The family will receive friends and loved ones prior to the service on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from 1:00-2:00 PM at New Hollywood Cemetery in Lumberton, NC. Following the visitation, a graveside service will be held on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 2:00 PM at New Hollywood Cemetery in Lumberton, NC, with Rev. Johnny Bruce officiating.