Reverend Deacon Dennis G. O'Connell

East Sandwich, MA

Rev Deacon Dennis G. O’Connell of Corpus Christi Parish, East Sandwich, passed away on October 2, 2021 after a brief battle with cancer. Devoted son and caretaker to his mother, Beryl (Borden) O’Connell of East Sandwich, brother of Terry O’Connell (and his wife Amanda) of Sandwich, brother Kevin (and wife Susan) of Winslow, Maine. Dennis is predeceased by his father, Paul J. O’Connell.

Dennis held a special place in the hearts of his nieces and nephews: Kelly Darmon (husband Chris) and Katelynn Gallagher (husband Eddie), both of East Sandwich; Shane, Cory and Brennah O’Connell all of Winslow, Maine. The youngest generation of “great nieces and nephews” were true apples of his eye: Kolbie, Kyla, and Brody Darmon, Ty Creighton, Bridget, Terry, Eddie, Kelly and Isabel Gallagher.

Dennis attended Sandwich Public Schools and Tabor Academy. He would go on to receive his B.S from Bryant College in 1979. Outgoing and caring, Dennis formed life-long friendships from Sandwich and Bryant.

The highlight of Dennis’ time at Bryant College was when he won “Big Man on Campus,” and came back home to Sandwich with a three-foot tall trophy which was proudly displayed next to his brothers’ smaller, athletic trophies.

Dennis had a successful career as a CPA, and often assisted his many friends, and local businesses in filing their taxes. Dennis believed strongly in giving back to others. He spent years as a Cantor at Corpus Christi, a volunteer for the Special Olympics, and coordinator for the Saint Vincent de Paul Society. Dennis’ passion was for his Morgan horses. Dennis thoroughly enjoyed his time with his horses, and with his friends at Legacy Stable.

Of all that Dennis’ accomplished, he was most proud of his title as Reverend Deacon. “Deacon Denny” was ordained by Bishop Sean O’Malley on May 18, 2002. He proudly served the parishioners of Corpus Christi Parish since that day. Deacon Denny was frequently sought out by his Sandwich friends, and his family to provide services. Deacon Denny gracefully eulogized loved ones, married his nieces, many cousins, and baptized more than we can count.

Deacon Denny’s strong faith allowed him to accept his fate, and to gracefully and peacefully be called to eternal life.

A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at Corpus Christi Parish in East Sandwich on Friday, October 8th at 11 am. Visiting hours are kindly omitted. Burial will be at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Sandwich.

Donations in Dennis’ memory may be made to The Society of St. Vincent de Paul at Saint Vincent DePaul, PO Box 668, E. Sandwich, MA 02537

For directions and online condolences please visit www.nickersonbournefuneralhome.com