Gwendolyn McDonald O'Neal

Gwendolyn McDonald O’Neal, 87, of James Island, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 2, 2025, surrounded by family. She was born to Otho and Effie McDonald in Opp, Alabama and grew up in Charleston.

Gwen is survived by her children: Richard Scot O’Neal, Linda Renee Hughes (Frank), Kathryn Gale O’Neal, Robert Keith O’Neal, all of James Island, and Deidre Lynn Craven (Emmett), of Irmo; four grandchildren: Lindsay Jones (Cody), Stephanie O’Neal, both of Nashville, Alex Landon (Fernanda), of Jacksonville and Noah Myatt (Levi), of James Island; and two great grandchildren: Bennett Barasch and Roman Barasch, of Nashville; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Herbert “Buddy” O’Neal, her oldest son, Steven Ervin O’Neal, a sister, Margie Tanner, a brother, Billy McDonald, a grandchild, Robert Keith James O’Neal, Jr., and her parents.

An informal gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at McAlister-Smith Funeral and cremation, James Island, 347 Folly Road, Charleston, S.C., 29412.  Light refreshments will be served. The burial will be private. 

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105,

Condolences may be viewed or submitted online at www.mcalister-smith.com and www.afterall.com/obituaries.