J. Riley O'Donnell

1938 - 2022

J. Riley O'Donnell, 83, of Farmington, died January 19, 2022. Born in Hartford on April 8, 1938, and a long-time resident of the Behind-the-Rocks neighborhood of Hartford, he was the son of the late Kathleen (Riley) O'Donnell and Charles M. O'Donnell. Riley attended Immaculate Conception School, Hartford Public High School, and graduated from Fairfield University. He was a teacher and guidance counselor at East Catholic High School and Simsbury High School for many years. A sports fan, Riley especially followed the Boston Red Sox and, in particular, Ted Williams. He was an avid reader, runner, moviegoer and in retirement, he especially enjoyed meals with friends. Riley is survived by his cousin, Ann O'Brien (Frank Pokorny), former coworkers, residents and staff at Middlewoods of Farmington, and many other friends. A Graveside service will be Wednesday, (January 26), at10:00 a.m. at Mount Saint Benedict Cemetery (Section K) in Bloomfield. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, (April 9), at 10:00 a.m. at The Church of St. Patrick in Farmington with a luncheon to follow to celebrate Riley's life, pending Covid restrictions, where stories of Riley's life will be welcome. Riley's extended family would like to express their sincere appreciation and special thanks to the wonderful, current and former staff and residents of Middlewoods of Farmington, which became his home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Office of Radio & Television, Archdiocese of Hartford, 134 Farmington Ave., Hartford, CT 06105, or a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences may be at www.SheehanHilbornBreen.com