The statement noted that "after an extended period of illness and a valiant fight....Rev O'Neal has succumbed to her illness."

Reverend O'Neal was 77, having been born on July 19, 1942.

She is survived by her daughter Abigail O’Neal aka 'Abby'.

The deceased former First Lady is the wife of the late Premier, Hon Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, Member Emeritus of the House of Assembly (HoA), who passed away last year November at the age of 85.

Reverend O’Neal was by her husband’s side before he became the first Premier of the British Virgin Islands and remained during his long and illustrious political career that spanned over 40 years. She was one of his chief advisors.

Speaker Willock saddened

In an invited comment, Speaker of the House of Assembly Hon Julian Willock said he was “saddened to learn of the news from Abby this morning.”

The Speaker noted he had become very close to Reverend O’Neal, “as I chaired the committee for the state funeral for her late husband Hon O’Neal…it was truly a pleasure working with her on that occasion, as I was moved by her strength and attention to details..she knew what she wanted."

Hon Willock said he is asking “the Territory to pray for Abby and the entire O’Neal family in this time of great loss.”

Virgin Islands News Online joins in mourning the passing of another strong local woman and patriot, Reverend Edris O'Neal.