E. Merlin O’Neill, Sr., 88, of Chesterfield County, passed away at home on May 27, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Garnette O’Neill. Merlin faithfully served the citizens of Chesterfield County for many years. He began his public service career as a Chesterfield County police officer, Badge No. 31, and later served as a magistrate and Supervisor for the Matoaca District. He also served numerous terms as Chairman of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors. Merlin had a lifelong love of auto racing, a passion he passed on to his son, Lin. He was the promoter of Southampton Motor Speedway during its transition to an asphalt track and remained deeply involved in the sport throughout his life. A successful businessman, Merlin owned several restaurants, sold automobiles, and built a thriving career as an insurance agent. His clients included several respected NASCAR drivers. Merlin is survived by his children, Virginia McLauren “Laurie” O’Neill, E. Merlin “Lin” O’Neill, Jr. (Debbie), Stephanie Bowen, and Mary Alexis “Lexie” Trovillion (Stuart); his grandchildren, Taylor O’Neill (Todd), Brandon Bowen (Morgan), Megan Kelleher (Alex), Morgan Simmons (Gage), Rylin O’Neill, and Olivia Trovillion; and his great-grandchildren, McKenna and Mason Kelleher. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the Colonial Heights Chapel of the E. Alvin Small Funeral Home, 2033 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834, with the Reverend Michael Murray officiating. Interment will follow at Blandford Cemetery in Petersburg, Virginia. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Saturday, at the funeral home. Condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.