Dennis Jay Oneal, Ph.D., a dedicated educator and esteemed veteran, passed away Sunday, November 12, 2023 leaving behind a legacy marked by a quiet determination and a profound commitment to the field of education.

Born to Jay and Zella Oneal on the summer day of August 22, 1944, in Gibson City, IL, Dennis was the last leaf on the family tree that included his seven siblings, all of whom have passed before him.

His journey through academia began in his hometown, leading him to Southern Illinois University for a bachelor's degree. His college years were also a time of service, where he joined the ROTC and became a commissioned officer in the United States Army, rising to the rank of Lieutenant.

It was while stationed at Fort Sill, OK, that Dennis met Carol Ann Acree. They married in 1968 and went on to build a family with two sons, Christopher and Timothy. After his honorable discharge from the military, Dennis's dedication to learning took him to the University of Arkansas, where he received a Master of Arts and began teaching as an adjunct instructor. He furthered his education with a Ph.D. from the University of Southern Mississippi.

Dr. Oneal brought his love for teaching to Northwestern State University and later to Middle Tennessee State University, where he dedicated over three decades to the Department of Electronic Media Communication in the College of Mass Communication, sometimes serving as Department Chair. Upon his retirement in 2015, he was honored as Professor Emeritus and received recognition from the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters for his service.

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Oneal used his summers to travel across Tennessee, assisting his students in securing their first opportunities in broadcasting—a reflection of his dedication to their success.

Throughout his tenure, Dr. Oneal taught with a passion for television history and media law and contributed to numerous university sports productions, sharing his knowledge with both the audience and his students.

He leaves behind his wife, Carol Anne Acree-Oneal; sons, Christopher and his wife Dena and Timothy and his wife Tiffany; grandchildren; Sean Oneal, Connor Oneal, and Makayla Rowland; and his beloved niece, Renee and her son Trevor Hunt.

Dr. Oneal's life was one of thoughtful scholarship and meaningful contributions, never seeking the limelight but always striving to illuminate the path for others. His impact on the lives of his students and colleagues is immeasurable, and his family will miss his guiding hand.

Dr. Dennis Jay Oneal will be remembered not just for his academic achievements, but for the way he lived a life of purpose, embodying the true spirit of a scholar and a gentleman. His story continues in the wisdom he imparted, the lives he shaped, and the love he shared.

The Oneal family encourages donations to the scholarship fund at Middle Tennessee State University in Dennis's memory at MTSU.edu/give. This contribution is aimed at fostering educational aspirations in others, a cause that was dear to Dennis's heart.

Visitation with the family will be Saturday, December 2, 2023 from 11:00am until 1:00pm at Woodin Memorial Chapel. A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 2, 2023 at 1:00pm at Woodfin Memorial Chapel. This service will be a small, intimate gathering for family, friends, and colleagues.