Marqez De’Anthony O’Neal was born on January 12, 1993 to the loving parents of Shwanna Johnson and Atward O’Neal at Humana Hospital in Montgomery, AL.
Marqez “MJ” started at D.C. Wolf Elementary School in Shorter, AL, where he later moved to Wheeling, WV and was a graduate of Wheeling Park High School in 2011. Marqez was a soldier and the anchor in his life to his family and friends. A soldier and anchor that walked his own path and a natural born leader. He wasn’t afraid to try new things and experiences. He loved being around and celebrating with family and friends. He was a bright light that shined everywhere he went and was wise and humble beyond his years.
Marqez’s passion was playing basketball. If he wasn’t working, he was playing ball. Whether it was with his sons, the community or just a pick-up game, he was always playing somewhere.
Marqez departed on May 10, 2026.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Otis Johnson; paternal grandmother, Maggie O’Neal; and his uncle, Lionel O’Neal.
He leaves to cherish and to celebrate his life, his mother, Shwanna Johnson O’Neal; father, Atward O’Neal, Jr.; grandmother, Peggy Johnson; grandfather, Atward O’Neal, Sr.; Mother of his children, Alicia Ring; sons, Camden O’Neal and Lance O’Neal; brothers, Markieth (Kayla) O’Neal, De’Shawn Sanford and Cameron Smith; sisters, Kambrea O’Neal and Deja Lumpkin; uncles, Sidney Johnson, Rodney Johnson, Marcus Johnson, Dimerious Townsend and Antoine Calhoun; and an auntie, Carlena (Anthony) O’Neal. He also leaves to cherish nieces, nephews, cousins, great-aunts, great-uncles and a host of special friends.
Friends and family will gather on Thursday May 21, 2026 from 12 noon until 2 PM for a celebration of Marqez’s life, at Kepner Funeral Home, 166 Kruger St., Wheeling (304-242-2311)
