Thomas Joseph O’Neill of Wilmington, Delaware, formerly of Philadelphia, peacefully passed away at home surrounded by family on May 12, 2025, at the age of 93. He was bright, sharp, engaging with all, and full of humor until the end.

Born in 1932, in Manhattan, New York, to Irish immigrants Thomas O’Neill and Bridie Hayes, Tom was the youngest of two children, following his sister Stella. He spent his formative years in Manhattan and Philadelphia, graduating from West Catholic High School in 1950.

Tom served honorably in the U.S. Army Security Agency, part of the 101st Airborne Division known as the Screaming Eagles from 1952 to 1955, while stationed in Ethiopia.  After his military service, he earned a degree in Business Marketing and Economics from LaSalle University in 1959. For over 22 years, Tom worked as a senior salesman for Rockwell International, proudly serving customers throughout the Mid-Atlantic states.

In 1960, Tom married Eileen McGroarty, with whom he raised five children in Reading, Pennsylvania. In 1969, they relocated to Wilmington, Delaware, where they became members of St. John the Beloved Parish. Tom was an avid golfer and enjoyed the outdoors. He looked forward to watching Western movies and listening to the radio.

Tom was predeceased by his former wife Eileen, his parents, Thomas and Bridie, and his sister, Stella Donahue. He is survived by his children: Rory (Colleen) of Fairbanks, Alaska; Ann Marie Phillips (Rick Carr) of Claymont, Delaware; Brian O’Neill of Newark, Delaware; Kevin O’Neill (Barbara) of Glen Mills, PA; and Sean O’Neill (Nancy) of York, PA. He leaves behind twelve beloved grandchildren: Erin, Ean, Kaitlin, Kiara, Tommy, Kevin, Cloda, Patrick, Bridget, Liam, Maisy, and Meghan. He is also survived by many extended family members and beloved nieces and nephews, including his niece, Eileen Martinez (Martin) of Kentucky and his nephew, Raymond Donahue (Michiko) of Japan, who held a cherished place in his heart; and his cat, Marmalade.   

Tom’s family would like to thank his Hospice team and his personal aide, T.D. for being so loving and caring in his time of need. Tom will be deeply missed by his family and all those fortunate enough to have known him. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Tom’s memory may be made to Meals on Wheels (https://mealsonwheelsde.org/support-us/donate-online/) or Brandywine Valley SPCA (https://bvspca.org/donate/honor-of-life), in honor of Tom’s love for his cat. God bless the O’Neill Clan and the next generation! 

To offer condolences, please visit:

Gebhartfuneralhomes.com

302.798.7726