James Donnelly

James "Jim" Donnelly was born September 7, 1936, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2025 at the age of 89. He was born in Detroit, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his parents Thomas & Martha Donnelly, and his sister Martha (Walt) Downey. Jim met his beloved wife Theresa 'Terry' (Surma) Donnelly while on vacation at a dude ranch, married and eventually made their home in Birmingham and then Rochester Hills, Michigan.
Jim is survived by his loving daughters Karen (Robert) Bodett, of Williamsburg, VA and Susan Donnelly of Traverse City, MI, along with his adoring granddaughter Victoria Bodett, his steadfast brother John (Sharon) Donnelly, and many cherished nieces and nephews.
After graduation from Holy Redeemer in Detroit, he trained with the U.S. Coast Guard, became an apprentice Pattern Maker through Cadillac Motor and his career took him to Buick Engineering in Flint, Automotive Pattern, and Pontiac Motor where he worked in wood, plastics and metal, eventually retiring from General Motors after 33 years.
In his younger years, he enjoyed delivering newspapers, and playing basketball with the local fire department. He was a member of St. Paul's Council of Knights of Columbus in Detroit, and the KofC of Rochester, St. Anthony's Youth Club and the General Motors Ski Club. Jim loved adventure, taking his young family on many camping excursions, and eventually enjoying many cruises after retirement.
Jim was known by many for his time spent as a fire fighter & EMT. His admiration for first responders started as a young boy befriending those at the local fire department in Detroit. Jim became a Volunteer Fire Fighter with the Avon Township/Rochester Hills Fire Department, working his way up to District Chief of Station 4 before retiring in 2008.
Jim was a member of St. Irenaeus Church in Rochester Hills and St. John Fisher Church in Auburn Hills. He loved to volunteer at church, at Crittenton Hospital, The Rochester Neighborhood House Food Pantry, the Catholic Community Response Team 'Movers and Shakers', and with the Desert Angels.
He was loved by many and will be dearly missed.
The Donnelly family would like to sincerely thank our many dear friends and family for their support over the years. We would also like to thank the nurses and caregivers with Bellbrook Assisted Living/Hospice for their compassionate care and kindness.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, link below.
Luncheon and celebration of life to follow the mass.
Private burial to be held at a later date.