Francis X. "Pop" McDonnell, 91, passed away on August 6, 2026. Born on September 5, 1934, in Brooklyn, New York, he was the son of the late Francis and Ethel McDonnell. He later made his home in Toms River, New Jersey, after years of raising his family in Staten Island, New York.
Francis served with steady dedication as a NYC Corrections Officer for 20 years, retiring in 1980. His life reflected the quiet strength of a hard-working man—devoted in his commitments, thoughtful in his ways, and generous with his time and care for those around him. Even in life’s ordinary moments, his humor had a way of bringing lightness and ease, a gift remembered with gratitude by all who knew him.
Francis was married to the love of his life, Jennie, for 61 years, until her passing in 2017. He is survived by his three sons, Frank and his wife Linda, Michael and his wife Linda, and Richard and his wife Kelly. He is also survived by nine grandchildren: Donna (Brian), Danielle, Christina (Justin), Matthew, Sophia, Kelley (Jimmy), Richard Jr., Frankie, and Sarah; and by two great-grandchildren, Anthony and Cole.
He found genuine joy in simple pleasures and shared time—watching John Wayne movies, traveling, and enjoying trips to Atlantic City. Most of all, he cherished being with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and his presence among them will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
A Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 from 9 am - 11:30 am at the Quinn-Hopping Funeral Home, 26 Mule Rd., Toms River. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at 12 pm at St. Maximilian Kolbe, Toms River, with interment to follow at St. Joseph's Cemetery, Toms River.
