Patrick J. O'Connell

Patrick J. O’Connell, 83, of Fairfield, CT and formerly the Bronx, NY, peacefully passed away on December 9, 2025. Pat was born in Castletownshend, Co. Cork, Ireland on March 8, 1942 to the late John and Margaret O’Connell (nee Collins). Pat attended the local primary school from the age of 5 until 12. He then attended and graduated from Skibbereen High School. 

At 18, Pat immigrated to New York and lived with his Aunt Annie and her family in the Bronx. Pat proudly served in the United States Army for four years. Then he worked as an electrician at Verizon for over 20 years until his retirement. After retiring, Pat worked at Colonial Gardens Florist making beautiful arrangements and creating more friendships. 

Loving husband of the late Doreen (nee Montague) for 24 years. Devoted and proud father to Margaret O’Connell and stepfather of Kelli Caryl (Josh), Tara Herr (Tim), and Timothy Gavin. Caring grandfather of Kaylee, William, and Skylar. Cherished brother of Anne Daly and the late Noel O’Connell. Dearest brother-in-law of Marie O’Connell, Sheila Montague (Celia), Eileen Kanganis (Tommy), Kathleen Montague, and the late John Daly. Compassionate cousin to Kathleen McCarthy, Anne Padulchick, and Michael Quinlan. Proud uncle of nephews Tommy, Sean, Noel, and Michael. Beloved great uncle of Ryan, Daniel, Kerby, and Price. Caring uncle-in-law to Marie and Lindsey. 

Pat was happiest when he was spending time with Doreen and Margaret. Pat enjoyed his trips back to Ireland to visit his family and friends while also looking forward to annual trips to Mystic and the Catskills with his best buddy, Noel McGovern. He enjoyed and was especially interested in Irish history. Lifetime friend of Noreen and Gerry Forde, Sharon and Noel McGovern, and Dave Howe and Elizabeth O’Neill. Proud Irish Republican and member of Friends of Irish Freedom, Irish Northern Aid, Ancient Order of Hibernians, and the Gaelic American Club of Fairfield. 

Pat served as President of the GAC for two years and worked diligently on fundraising for the expansion of the club, inviting in a larger community to celebrate and gain knowledge on their Irish heritage and culture. Pat was instrumental in the fundraising for a monument commemorating the 100th year of the Easter Rising’ placed on the front GAC grounds. Pat was always willing to lend a helping hand when it came to the club as well as the Irish Festival that he was an active participant in each summer. Pat also enjoyed the annual holiday parties and summer barbecues the O’Connell Family would host at their home on Reef Road. 

Family will receive friends on December 14, 2025 at Spear Miller Funeral Home, 39 S Benson Road Fairfield, CT 06824 from 1:00-5:00pm. Mass of Christian burial on Monday, December 15, 2025 at St. Pius X Parish, 834 Brookside Drive, Fairfield, CT 06824 at 11:00am.