John F. O'Donnell

John Francis O’Donnell, age 97 years, of Delaware Township, NJ, passed away on Friday, June 21, 2024, at his home. Born in Manhattan, NY, May 26, 1927, John was the son of the late Patrick and Johanna (Morley) O’Donnell.

He was the husband of Addie LaRaine O’Donnell; they had been married for 47 years. He was the older brother of Dorothy Cecilia Seaman; the uncle of James Seaman, Cathleen Valencia, and Richard “Ricky” Seaman; and the grand-uncle of MaryAnn Seaman. His sister Dorothy and her three children meant a great deal to him, and they looked after each other all their life. They always kept in touch by phone, cards, gifts, letters, and visits.

John lived most of his young life in Washington Heights, NY. He and his young friends spent many days and hours wandering and exploring the streets and alleys of New York City and parts of New Jersey. Walking was the only way to get around the city in those days. He loved to go to movie theaters, which had live entertainment. All of this was a new type of entertainment in 1937, much more entertaining than school. Additionally, as a child, he would go to the public library to read the Bible; he always tried to live a Christ-like life.

He found The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter - Day Saints at the 1965 World’s Fair. In his early days in the church, when there was a subway strike, he would walk five miles to church and back. Always a faithful member, he made friends at church, whom he loved, and they loved him and treated him to his favorite sweet treats. He served all his life in many responsible callings.

From a very early age, he always held some kind of job to give himself spending money. He cared about the working man and fought for the rights of the working man. For years, he worked very hard making a living for his family, working diligently up to the age of seventy-five.

He also loved the land and his property, always trying to take the best care of it as possible. Additionally, he loved books and bought many to read after his retirement. Moreover, he loved family ancestry, and researched many of the records of his ancestors. Many days, hours, and vacations were devoted to the searching of ancient documents to complete the temple work for his ancestors.

He lost his sight about ten years ago, but never complained about his loss. He learned to live and function normally. No one ever even suspected he was blind. He listened to hundreds of his books on tape and his mind was sharp right up until his final days.

“Death is not the end, it is putting out the candle, because the dawn has come.” – President Thomas S. Monson

Dressing of his remains will be done by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter - Day Saints Clinton Ward, 9 Red School House Road, Lebanon, NJ, 08833 in accordance with temple tradition.

Private cremation and arrangements are under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit his Tribute Wall at www.holcombefisher.com.