John Patrick O’connell

JOHN P. O’CONNELL

February 19, 1938 - February 23, 2025

John P. O’Connell of Jacksonville, Florida passed away of natural causes on February 23, 2025, at McGraw Center for Caring. John was born on February 19, 1938, in New York, New York to Irish immigrants, Annie O’Connell (nee McGovern) and John O’Connell. He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Teresa (Teri) O’Connell (nee Nowicki), and sons, Michael (Lisa), David (Jean), and Jeffrey (deceased)(Janet), nine grandchildren Caitlin (Mike), Michael (Kate), Rachel (Sam), Sarah (Jeremy), Patrick, Megan, John, Daniel, Kevin and three great grandchildren, Parker, Gavin and Mila. John grew up in New York City, spent time in New Jersey, Illinois, California, New York, Connecticut, South Carolina and until eventually retiring in Florida.

He was a graduate of the Polytechnic Institute of New York and attended the President’s Program at the Harvard Business School. He was a First Lieutenant in the United States Army Corp of Engineers (Hon. Dis. 1960-66). John had a long and illustrious career in business holding senior executive positions in corporations ranging from family-owned business to Fortune 100 subsidiaries including Plant Manager at Conoco, Executive V.P at SRS, Inc., President at MORECO Energy, Inc., President at Evergreen Oil Company, President at EWR Inc., and turn around consulting for various businesses. Early in his career he was elected to the Young President Organization, was a Fellow of the National Engineering Society and served on the board of directors for several corporations.

John had an active life enjoying spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren. He loved his wife, children and entire family deeply and was loved by all who knew him. He enjoyed sailing, golf (two-time senior champion at Cimarrone Golf Club), travel, and gatherings with others. John was also active with many charities including the St Joseph’s Church food pantry. He was also involved in Helping Hands in St John’s by serving annually as the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus for challenged children. He was a devout Catholic and member of the Knights of Columbus and American Legion. Family and friends are comforted in knowing that his life is eternal, and love is everlasting.

A Memorial Mass will be held in John's honor at St Paul's Catholic Church, 523 Pablo Ave, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 on March 17, 2025 at 11:00 am.

Following the funeral mass will be a private family graveside service at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218.