Nancy Whitney O'Connell

1928 - 2025

Nancy Whitney O'Connell, 97, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born April 30, 1928, in Chicago, Illinois, the beloved daughter of Lafeton J. and Gertrude (Leichsenring) Whitney.

She was a devoted member of St. Peter's By The Lake - Episcopal Parish and an active part of her community. A loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Nancy cherished family gatherings and was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan.

Nancy is survived by: her sons, Jeffrey (Melinda) O'Connell, and Timothy O'Connell; grandchildren, Joel O'Connell, Chris O'Connell, Matthew O'Connell, and Dana (O'Connell) Martinski; 6 great-grandchildren; and many other extended family members.

Nancy was preceded in death by: her husband, Donald R. O'Connell; son, Michael E. O'Connell; granddaughter, Jennifer R. (O'Connell) Stevenson; sister, Jean Whitney; her special cousin, Kendall Mitchell; and other dear cousins, all of whom were important in her life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter's By The Lake - Episcopal Parish of White Lake, 8435 Old Channel Trail, Montague, MI 49437.

Memorial services will be held at St. Peter's By The Lake - Episcopal Parish of White Lake at a later date.

Nancy will be interred next to her husband Don in Arlington National Cemetery.

To view the full obituary please visit Harris Funeral Home's website, www.harrisfhome.com. Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements.