John T. O’Connell, Jr., 77
Dateline: Mansfield, MA
John T. “Jack” O’Connell, Jr., age 77, of Mansfield, passed away peacefully, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Martha A. (Curtis) O’Connell, to whom he was wed for over fifty-five years.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts on May 6, 1948, he was a loving son of the late John T., Sr. and Charlotte M. (Kazmierczyk) O’Connell.
Jack grew up in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Boston and was a graduate of Hyde Park High School. During the time of the Vietnam War, he proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Submarine School in Groton, CT in 1966, and was assigned to the USS Blenny. He often reflected on this special time of his life. He loved the sea, travelling the world, and most importantly, he loved serving his country.
He was honorably discharged in August, 1971, with the rank of Torpedoman’s Mate. Following his military duty, Jack returned to his studies and graduated from the Control Data Institute. Jack worked in the telecommunications industry for over 30 years, starting with New England Telephone in 1970. At his retirement, Jack served as a Project Manager for Verizon Global Services International.
A resident of Mansfield for the past thirteen years, he was a communicant of Saint Mary’s Church in Mansfield and formerly resided in Walpole and Medfield. Jack’s family, especially his grandchildren, were the essence of his life and always came first. He had a special love for the outdoors, which included being a member of the Mansfield Fish & Game, fishing, target & trap shooting, and playing golf. He was an active member of the US Navy Boston Base USSVI and Holland Club.
Jack was a life-long learner. He loved technology and always rushed to get the latest gadgets. He loved to share knowledge and often quizzed the kids and grandkids on geography and world events. He spent countless hours playing cribbage with his brothers. He was a master joke-teller and loved to laugh. Above all, he was known for his warmth and love of family.
In addition to his beloved wife, he is survived by his devoted children, Sean T. O’Connell, Sr. and his wife Alissa of Walpole, Maureen E. Larochelle and her husband Mark of Mansfield, Jonathan E. O’Connell and his wife Cynthia of Wrentham, Allison M. Brandolo of Mansfield and Ryan F. O’Connell and his wife Suzanne of Bellingham. He was the proud and adoring grandfather of Sean, Jr., Christopher, Jack, Aislyn, Connor, Jared, Liam, Nolan, Grace, Lindsey, James, Ethan, Kate, Nicholas and Cash. He was the dear brother of Kevin O’Connell of Scituate and Brian O’Connell and his wife Elaine of Dighton. He is also survived by his loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend visiting hours on Monday, November 10th from 4:00-7:00 P.M. at the Sherman & Jackson Funeral Home, 55 North Main Street, Mansfield.
His Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, November 11th at 11:00 A.M. at Saint Mary’s Church, 330 Pratt Street (Route 106) Mansfield. Family and friends are asked to please go directly to St. Mary's Church on Tuesday morning for his celebration of life.
Military honors will be rendered at the conclusion of services at the church. Burial will be held privately at a later date. His final resting place will be Vine Lake Cemetery located in Medfield, MA.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Jack’s memory to the Massachusetts General Hospital, care of Cardiology Research, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114.
To send his family a message of condolence, please visit www.shermanjackson.com
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