John J. O'Connell III

John J. O'Connell III, a cherished and respected member of the Braintree community, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2024, at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Boston. He was born in Boston, MA, and grew up in the vibrant neighborhood of Mattapan. John's loving nature and contagious sense of humor touched everyone he knew.

An extremely devoted family man, John was the beloved husband of Kathleen M. O'Connell (Vincent), with whom he shared a beautiful and enduring love. He was a guiding light and hero to his children Mary K. O'Connell of Cambridge, Thomas M. O'Connell and his wife Christina of Durham, NC, John J. O'Connell IV of Quincy, and Maggie E. O'Connell of Chicago. John was also a supportive brother to Thomas M. O'Connell of Mattapan and a fun-loving uncle to Daniel and Hugh O'Connell of Quincy. His family was the center of his world, and his unwavering love for them is the legacy he leaves behind.

John's educational journey began at Boston College High School and continued at Brandeis University, where he left an indelible mark as a member of the NCAA Champion Soccer team in 1976, and later was the team captain. He had a deep passion for sports and loved telling stories about the friendships he made during his college years playing soccer, lacrosse and rugby.

Professionally, John worked for 35 years at Verizon as a System's Analyst. After his career at Verizon, he transitioned into a role as a Senior Quality Control Analyst at the Mass State Lottery, where he worked for 10 years. Providing for his family was always his top priority and main motivator.

John's commitment to his community was evident through his active involvement in his children’s sports and extracurriculars. He would never miss a school play, a sporting event, or a Boy Scout camp out . He was a dedicated Troop 19 parent where he loved working at the waterfront every year during summer camp. He was also a long time Braintree youth soccer coach who enjoyed teaching kids the sport and had a positive impact on the lives of so many. John's enthusiasm for life was contagious, and he encouraged those around him to embrace every day with vigor and joy.

John J. O'Connell III lived in Braintree for 28 years, where he and Kathleen created a warm and welcoming home full of laughter, love, and cherished memories. John was previously a resident of Quincy and Mattapan.

As we bid farewell to a man of exceptional character, wit, and kindness, we celebrate the life of John J. O'Connell III. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of his loved ones and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. John's life was a testament to the power of love, the strength of family, and the importance of community. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Visiting hours at the Alfred D. Thomas Funeral Home 326 Granite Ave Milton Friday 4:00 to 7:00 pm. Funeral Mass at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Braintree Saturday morning at 11:00. Burial to follow at Blue Hill Cemetery, Braintree. Donations in memory of John can be made to the Sisters of St. Joseph of Boston, 637 Cambridge Street, Brighton, MA 02135.

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