John O'Connell

John Thomas “Jack” O'Connell, age 84, of Harbeson, Delaware, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Pottsville, PA he was the son of the late John O'Connell and the late Gertrude (McLaughlin) O'Connell. He was the husband of the late Julia Theresa O'Connell, who died in 2017, and with whom he shared 51 years of marriage.

Jack graduated from West Catholic High School in 1958 and earned his Associates Degree in Accounting from Goldey Beacom College. Retiring in 2006 after 30 years at Amtrak and raising their four children in Unionville, Jack and Julie retired to Harbeson, DE where they enjoyed many years. Jack came to be known as the “grill master” at all neighborhood parties, he was the go-to guy when needing something fixed, and was a great friend to many.

Jack was an avid Nascar, Phillies, Flyers, and Eagles fan.  He never missed a race or a game.  He enjoyed making “bets” with his son, John every Sunday, and going to the Dover races with his brother, Jimmy twice a year along with many other events.  He loved his family more than anything and it showed in all he did.

He is survived by two daughters, Terry O'Connell of Felton, DE and Julie Anne Wentzel (John) of Oxford, PA; two sons, Paul O'Connell (Tracy) of  Springfield, PA, and John O'Connell of Pottstown, PA; five grandchildren, Brennan, Jack, Justin, Julia, and PJ; one great-grandson, Jace; and one great-grandson on the way, Bodie; his brother, James (Patty) and sister, Anne.  He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends.  He is predeceased by his sister, Maryellen Morrissey, along with his parents, John and Gertrude O’Connell, and his nephew, Tommy Morrissey.

You are invited to visit with John’s family and friends from 9:30AM to 10:30AM Tuesday, December 13, 2022, at Church of the Advent, 401 N Union St. Kennett Square PA 19348.  John’s Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00AM at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 212 Meredith St. Kennett Square.  Interment will be in St. Patrick Cemetery.  Contributions in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society http://www.cancer.org/donate

Arrangements are by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. ( 484-734-8100 ) To view his online obituary, please visit www.griecofunerals.com