Gerald F. "Jesse" O'Neil, a lifelong resident of Charlestown, entered into eternal life on Wednesday, December 28, 2016 at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston following a courageous 3 month battle with cancer. He was 81 years old.
Jesse was born in Boston on February 27, 1935, a son of the late Matthew O'Neil and Mary F. (Nestor) O'Neil. He grew up in Charlestown where he was educated at St. Mary's Parochial School and graduated high school . Jesse enlisted into the United States Army on October 7, 1954 and served his country faithfully and with courage. He was honorably discharged on October 3, 1956 with the rank of Private First Class. Jesse worked as a Longshoreman on the Boston waterfront for over 35 years and was a proud member of the International Longshoreman's Union Local # 799. He was a member of The Halligan Club, Malden Irish American Club and former member of Teamsters Union Local # 25. Jesse was a lifelong and very dedicated parishioner of St. Mary's Parish in Charlestown. He enjoyed golfing and dancing.
Jesse is the beloved husband of 53 years to Margaret E. "Margie" (O'Connor) O'Neil. He is the devoted father of Gerry O'Neil and his wife Sandy, Patrick O'Neil and his wife Patricia and Maura Perriello and her husband Mark. He is the loving Papa to Gerald, Katherine, Grace, Mary Rose, Patrick, Joseph and Scott. He is the beloved brother of Jimmy O'Neil and the late Helen Myers, Matthew O'Neil and Robbie O'Neil. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Jesse's Funeral on Monday, January 2, 2017 at 10 A.M. from The Carr Funeral Home, 220 Bunker Hill St. Charlestown followed by his Funeral Mass in St. Mary's Church, 55 Warren St. Charlestown at 11 A.M. His burial at the Veteran's Administration National Cemetery in Bourne is private. His visiting hours will be on Sunday, January 1, 2017 from 2 to 6 P.M. in the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, kindly make a memorial donation in Jesse's name to Harvest On The Vine, 46 Winthrop St. Charlestown, Mass. 02129.