Peter O'Neill

Peter O’Neill, beloved husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Queens, NY to Gertrude J (Ellis) and Timothy P O’Neill, Peter spent his early years in Springfield Gardens before settling in Oceanside, NY, where he met his lifelong friends, George and Richard. Raised by his devoted mother and adoring ‘Gram’, Peter’s compassionate spirit was evident from a young age- especially in his love for bringing home stray puppies. Trixy, Queenie, Annie, and Percy lived wonderful lives with Peter and his family.

Peter pursued higher education at Ohio Wesleyan where he earned his bachelor’s degree in economics. He was a proud member of Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity. Later, he earned his MBA from Hofstra University.

He served his country with honor as a Captain in the U.S. Army and was awarded both the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his service. He acted as an interpreter in Vietnam until he was wounded.

His professional life was dedicated to banking, where he worked as a loan officer for banks in Manhattan and then on Long Island.

Beyond his career, Peter was a man of deep faith and service. He was a devout member of the United Methodist Church (UMC). He officially became a member of First Church Baldwin United Methodist in Baldwin, NY in 1959. He received great joy from participating in the choir. Peter was involved with several social groups through the church. He also served as a liturgist and held many leadership positions. He was called to preach a sermon on the Three Crosses which eventually led him to pursue laity service. Peter attended a Walk to Emmaus in 1990. He continued to serve the Emmaus community for many years.

His UMC membership was transferred to Babylon UMC, in Babylon, NY in 1999, where his wife, Jeanne, was a member. He joyfully sang in the choir and continued serving the church.

When he moved up to Elmira in 2016, his membership was transferred to New Beginnings UMC. That same year Peter was certified in Lay Servant Ministry. He then served as a Lay Pastor at Big Flats UMC followed by Oakwood UMC.

Peter’s passions were as varied as they were heartfelt. He found joy in serving his community through the Lion’s Club and the Garden City Chamber of Commerce. His personal pursuits included gardening, history, travel, watching Hallmark movies, and golfing- even volunteering at the U.S. Open. He delighted in building intricate structures for his model train layouts. He accomplished a common American dream by writing his novel, Grey Wolves Howling.

Peter and his beloved wife, Jeanne, shared many adventures together, traveling to the Pacific Northwest, Vermont, Canada, London, Bermuda, and along several scenic routes between Long Island and Michigan, among other destinations. A devoted fan of New York sports, Peter especially treasured his role as a long-time Islanders season ticket holder. He loved attending games with his friends Ray & George or one of his daughters, creating lasting memories through their shared enthusiasm.

Above all, Peter treasured his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Jeanne (Hill) O’Neill; his loyal beagle, Scout; his three daughters—Beth (Allen) Briggs, Susan (Jake) Waybright, and Patty (Andrew) Briggs; and his five grandchildren- Sean and Collin Barack, Kevin and Sam Briggs, and Naomi Waybright- who brought him immeasurable joy. Peter took great pride in attending the performing arts and sporting events his children and grandchildren participated in, always cheering them on with heartfelt enthusiasm. He made it a priority to stay connected with loved ones, whether they lived across the street or across the miles.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at New Beginnings United Methodist Church, 300 E Miller Street, Elmira, NY, with military honors in recognition of Peter’s service. A celebration of life will follow in the church hall, where family and friends are invited to share memories and honor his remarkable legacy.

Peter was a generous man, always sharing and supporting his family, his friends, and strangers. His life was a testament to love, service, and faith. He will be deeply missed and remembered with love.