ROBERT A. O'CONNELL

ROBERT ANDREW O'CONNELL "Bob"  
Passed away peacefully at home on November 12, 2014 in Loganville, Georgia at the age of 83.Robert is survived by his four children, Courtnie Bright Prophett of Loganville, GA, Adam Payne Bright of Lehigh Acres, FL, Nathan Bright of Bristow, VA and Tara Catherine O'Connell of Falls Church, VA; seven grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews, particularly those from New York with whom he shared a special bond. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary P. O'Connell and his brother, T. Bryron O'Connell.Robert was born on April 2, 1931 in Mt. Vernon, NY to Thomas and Isabelle O'Connell. He graduated from the Hill School in Pottstown, PA in 1949 and from Yale University in 1953 with a degree in Political Science. He entered the Marines October 1, 1953 when he was assigned to the Officer Candidate School at Quantico, receiving his commission on December 12, 1953. A devoted husband, he married Mary in 1966 and they were a loving and committed couple for 45 years. Robert was a varsity athlete in high school and college, excelling in both football and track and field. He held the discus throwing record at the Hill School for many years. He was an active sponsor in AA reaching out to and encouraging countless people, many of whom became lifelong friends. He was a true family man, extremely considerate and kind to all who were in his life. A celebration of Robert's life is planned for early Spring 2015. A Memorial Service will be held on April 9 at the First Assembly of God, 4212 Inn Street, Triangle, VA at 10 a.m. Interment at Quantico National Cemetery at 12 p.m., with a reception to follow at the home of Nathan and Suzie Bright. The family would like to thank Courtnie and Scott Prophett for their loving care of Bob during the last year. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice at: www.agapehospicecare.net