Obituary of Richard G. O'Connell

Richard G. O'Connell Jr. died suddenly on March 7, 2023 at Good Samaritan Hospital.  He was 58.  

The son of the late Richard G. O'Connell Sr & Linda Hembleb O'Connell, he was born on March 30, 1964 in Port Jervis, NY 

Richard's  life of public service began as a young man volunteering for Excelsior Engine 5, where he would also learn and act as a diver with for them.  His career was in public service as a Police Officer serving the City of Port Jervis for over 25 years.  He loved the NY Giants, turkey hunting, metal detecting and being on the beach most especially in Palm Coast Florida.  With the before mentioned of his interests, he loved more so spending time with his family. Be it fossil hunting and hikes on Point Peter with Colin and Dylan, watching a ball game with Aaron or looking for seashells and sharks teeth with Emma that's where Richard's love and true intrests in life was.  

Devoted husband of Elke O'Connell for nearly 35 years.  Beloved father of Colin O'Connell his wife Michelle of Port Jervis, Dylan O'Connell his wife Shanelle of Port Jervis, Aaron O'Connell of Barryville and Emma O'Connell at home.  Grandfather of Makayla, Sofia, Rylee and Cooper.  Dear brother of Jacqueline O'Connell, Jerrilyn Riordan and Patricia O'Connell.  An uncle, cousin and friend to many.  

In addition to his parents Richard was predeaceased in life by his nephew Sean Riordan.  

““There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.” 
—Mahatma Gandhi

Love, Your Wife Elke

“If I had a flower for every time I thought of you, I could walk in my garden forever.” – Alfred Lord Tennyson

Love, Aaron

Visitation Sunday 3/12/23 from 12Noon to 3:00PM at the KNIGHT-AUCHMOODY Funeral Home 154 East Main Street Port Jervis NY 12771.  Prayer Service 3:00PM at the Funeral Home.  

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