Kathleen Patricia O'Connell

Kathleen was born in New York, NY on February 7, 1933, the devoted daughter of the late John T. and Bessie A. Howley (nee Cafferty) who emigrated from County Sligo, Ireland.

She was predeceased by her loving husband, John J. O’Connell in 1989, as well as her adored sister Mary Cronin (James, dec.). Kathleen is survived by her beloved daughters Kathy (Ann Henriques, dec.) and Eileen Ryan (Steve); her most adoring and cherished grandchildren, Megan and Sean; her loving sister, Eileen McDonnell (Andrew); as well as her many loving cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was raised in the Bronx, NY in St. Luke’s parish. She and John made their home together in the Fordham section of the Bronx in the parish of St. Nicholas of Tolentine, eventually moving their family to the suburbs of Rockland in Pearl River and New City in the mid 70’s.

Kathleen graduated from St. Jean the Baptiste High School in Manhattan. In her working life, she rose to the position of Executive Assistant to the Founder and President of N.W. Johnsen & Co., and later Executive Assistant at Lederle Laboratories, from where she ultimately retired to her dream job of Nana.

She was a longtime resident of the Seton Village Community of Nanuet, where she fostered many fond and enduring friendships.

Kathleen’s life has always been about her love for her family, friends and God; she and her soft blue eyes, brilliant smile and kind, generous spirit will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Visitation will be Monday from 3-8pm at Higgins Funeral Home in New City, NY. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, 10am, St. Aedan’s Church, Pearl River, NY, followed by interment at St. Anthony’s Cemetery, Nanuet, NY.