Edward Francis Donnelly

He is survived by his daughter, Susan Donnelly, of Sandwich, his son William Donnelly and his wife Kim Donnelly of Marstons Mills, MA, his five grandchildren and five great grandchildren. He is predeceased by his son Stephen Donnelly, his wife Eunice Donnelly, and his son-in-law Thomas Gallagher.

Edward grew up in Everett, MA and graduated from Everett High School in 1950. In 1955 he married his wife, Eunice Donnelly, they were married for 65 years before she passed away in 2020. Together, Ed and Eunice had three children and raised them in the North Shore area of Massachusetts. Ed was in the National Guard and then made a career as a salesman in Abrasive Manufacturing for many years until he retired.

Above all, Edward was a family man. There was truly nothing more important to him than family gatherings, birthdays, summer cookouts, and holiday celebrations. He was quite the card shark, passing down his love of cribbage to many members of his family, and was known to enjoy a nice glass of scotch. Ed was passionate about gardening and often described the tomatoes he grew as “the nectar of the gods!”. For years he baked countless loaves of banana bread during the holiday season to share with clients, neighbors, and family. He had a wicked sense of humor and a habit of catching people off guard with his quick wit and one of a kind sayings right up until the end. Ed was rarely seen without a hat on representing one of his favorite Boston teams, the Cape League, or keeping it classy with a scally cap. He was a strong believer in always dressing up for the occasion. Earlier in life he was even known to mow the lawn in his dress shoes, white shirt, and tie after work. He loved talking sports, especially the Red Sox. During the summer you could often find Ed at Lowell Park sitting right behind home plate cheering on the Cotuit Kettleers with his family. Ed will be greatly missed, the love and dedication he had for his family will be forever cherished.

Services will be held for Edward on Friday, September 18, 2026 at Corpus Christi Parish in Sandwich at 11am. Burial to follow at Sandwich Town Cemetery.