James J. McDonnell

James J. McDonnell of Honey Brook James J. McDonnell, 84, of Honey Brook, formerly of West Goshen and Havertown, died April 16, 2013, at Tel Hai in Honey Brook. Born and raised in Phila., he was a graduate of St. Francis Vocational High School. Jim served in the Marine Corps at the close of WWII and was member of their ceremonial drill team. A Haverford Township police officer, he served that community for 26 years retiring in 1983. He had also worked at the A&P food market on West Chester Pike in Havertown. Following his retirement, Jim then worked as a deputy sheriff in Chester County. He had been a member of Sacred Heart Church in Manoa. An avid sports fan, most Saturdays found him watching Notre Dame football, Sunday's were reserved for the Eagles and he was loyal to the Phillies in good times and bad. He was the husband of the late Josephine (ne Morrone), who died in 1968; the late Lillian ( ne Frye ) who died in 1992; and the late Shirley (ne Linnenbaugh) who died in 2011. He is survived by his daughter, Marie (Dan) Wallower, his step-daughter, Geraldine (Jim) Phipps, step-sons, Michael and Carl "Bill" Geesey; 16 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. His funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 19, at Ss. Simon & Jude Church, Rt. 3 (West Chester Pk at Rte. 352), Westtown, where friends may call after 10 a.m. Burial will be at Valley Forge Gardens, King of Prussia. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Tel Hai Assurance Fund, PO Box 190, Honeybrook, PA 19344. Arrangements by Toppitzer Funeral Home. Online condolences www.toppitzer.us