Loretta "Fay" O'Neil, 68, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on June 11, 2026.

Fay was a woman whose greatest joy in life was her family. She had a wonderfully goofy sense of humor and a gift for making people laugh, often brightening even the hardest days with her quick wit, playful spirit, and warm smile. She never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone feel welcome and loved.

One of Fay's favorite pastimes was singing with her beloved granddaughters, Bre’anna and Leandra. The memories they created together through music will remain treasured by all who knew them. She found happiness in life's simple pleasures, including working puzzles, collecting angels, watching The Golden Girls, and reminiscing about her younger years when she was a devoted fan of The Osmonds.

Fay leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her memory: her children, Cynthia Sublett, Allen Decker, Christopher Decker, and Lonnie O'Neil Jr. (Dannielle Jones); her grandchildren, Leandra, Sarai, Akaysia, Amiah, Bre'anna, Destiny, Jayden, Trinten, Madison, Nehemya, Nolan, Kiana, and Chasity; and her great-grandchildren, Nyla, Delilah, and Aleah.

She is also survived by her siblings, Mercer Ballard, Linda Ballard Weaver, and Glen Ballard (Rachel), along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who loved her deeply.

Fay was preceded in death by her parents, Sherman and Glessie Ballard; her siblings, Norma Powers and Sherman Ballard Jr.; her beloved daughter, Christina; and the love of her life, John Hester.

Though her family grieves her loss, they take comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind—filled with laughter, music, love, and the unwavering devotion she showed to those she held dear. Her spirit will live on in the songs sung by her grandchildren, the laughter shared among family gatherings, and the many lives she touched throughout her journey.

A Celebration of Fay's Life will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Legacy Funeral Center – Schoppenhorst, 1832 W. Market Street, Louisville, Kentucky 40203.

In keeping with Fay's wishes and her easy going nature, guests are encouraged to come as they are. She would have wanted everyone to be comfortable, happy, and surrounded by love as they gather to celebrate a life well lived.

Forever loved, forever missed, and forever remembered.