Dennis Jeffery O'Neal

His family later move to Newark, New Jersey where in 1968 he graduated from Central High School. In 1989, he earned his Bachelors of Science Degree in Business Administration from Thomas Edison State University. He returned to school and in 2008 he acquired Certification from the American Institute of Applied Science for Forensic Science.

Dennis served in the United States Army from 1980-1986 as a Medical Specialist and a Sharpshooter. While serving in the army he was a part of the medical team that jumped out of helicopters into the ocean to rescue people's lives. His medical experience later in life allowed him to safely deliver his New Jersey neighbor's baby right in their apartment.

Dennis worked for Pfizer Inc. a Pharmaceutical Industry Company from 1981-2007. While employed there he was a Shift Leader Supervisor, a Documentation Specialist, and a Laboratory Analyst. Retirement from Pfizer Inc. gave him an opportunity to use his Forensic Science background in working within crime scene technology and evidence collection.

In 1982, Dennis married Levinia McClain and they divorced in 1986. Thereafter, he met (His Angel) Cheryle Milian. On March 11, 1987 they were married in Brooklyn, N. Y. Later that year, they moved with their son, John and daughter, Michele to Connecticut where they remained until his death.

Dennis had many interests which led him into many interesting roles and areas. He mentored youth helping them to acquire their High School diplomas and adults to obtain their GED. He marched in a Marching Drum Core and participated in the Lions Club. We called him Mr. Gadget because he loved any kind of electronic devices, computers, and etc.. Dennis was a music connoisseur. He loved gospel music, especially Psalms 34 by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir and How Great Thou Art, plus all Motown oldies and goodies. He also dabbled in photography. In 1999-2000 he helped the Quaker Workcamp International company to rebuild churches that were burned down because of hate crimes. In retirement he moonlighted at Curtin livery just to keep busy and facilitate his love for meeting people. His favorite color was blue.

Dennis was preceded in death by his father; Willie, mother; Julia, siblings; Andrew, Donald, Clarence, Willie, Charlene (Melvin), and Jaqueline. He leaves to mourn wife; Cheryle, Son; John (Ramona), Daughter; Michele, Grandsons; Charlie, Jamal and Ari, siblings; Muhammad, Raymond (Shirley), James, Johnathan, and Vernice, Barbara, Patricia (Terry), and Devora; brothers-in law, Allen (Karen), As’Samee, and Sisters-in law; Olivia, and Toni (Zachary) host of Aunts and Uncles, Nieces and Nephews, Cousins, Family and Friends (especially Rev. Lee Simpson, Pastor Kenneth Brevard Jr., and Karle Butler).

Dennis' favorite saying was

“Your Actions Speaks Louder Than Words”