Jamie O’Neal’s Sister Dies Unexpectedly

Facebook / Jamie O'Neal

The beloved singer and songwriter revealed that her family had been privately mourning the tragic passing of her sister for nearly two months.

“It is with a heavy heart that I share tragic news with you,” Jamie O’Neal wrote on her Facebook page. “Saturday, August 21st my sister Samantha Murphy passed away. My family and I are heartbroken and I’ve taken the last 6 weeks to privately mourn her loss.”

O’Neal, who is best known for her iconic hit songs like “There Is No Arizona” and “When I Think About Angels” had been a prolific songwriter in the music industry for decades before signing a record deal in 2000.

In her post, O’Neal explained the relationship she shared with her sister – stating that while they had endured some difficult parts, they had a profound bond and had shared the stage for many years.

“Sam and I had a difficult relationship for many years but the love was still there and always will be. Our childhood together growing up was wonderful. We performed together in a family act when we were young and Sam and I were really close.”

The Murphy Family band featured O’Neal, her little sister Samantha, and her parents who all toured around Australia in the 1970s.

“She had a vibrant spirit and was so talented at singing, songwriting and as an adult, she had such innovative and creative computer skills too – she was one of the first podcasters back in 2004.”

“Sam leaves behind an amazing 10-year-old son named Jonah.”

“Life is so fragile and we never know when we’re going to lose a loved one. Let’s cherish each other while we can.”

Along with the beautiful statement honoring her younger sister, O’Neal also shared an album of photos from the years past.

See her full post below and join us in sending prayers to her family during this very difficult time.