Charles H. O’Connell
Date of Passing:
O’Connell, Charles, H., 96, of Riverside, died peacefully on February 29, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of the late Janet (Smith) O’Connell. A lifelong resident of East Providence, he was a son of the late Joseph E. and Mary (Charlton) O’Connell. He grew up on Newport Avenue in Rumford and while working on the family gladiolus farm, he witnessed the Hindenburg fly overhead. As a child he saw the horse race Whirlaway and Alsab at Narragansett Racetrack, one of the nation’s greatest horse races. He also walked home from Union Primary School the day of the 1938 Hurricane.
Mr. O’Connell worked for the City of East Providence, starting in the Water Department, then quickly moving up to become Treasurer, and finally Finance Director. He retired in 1991 after 38 years with the city.
In his younger days he could be found running the large wooden roller-coaster, “The Zephyr”, at Cresent Park. In midlife he also sold Christmas Trees from the family garden along Newport Avenue.
Charles was a graduate of East Providence High School Class of 1945 where he was selected on the All-State Track & Field team. He was Second Team All-American by posting the fastest school-boy thousand yard race, a record that remains unbroken. In 2006, he was inducted to the East Providence High School Hall of fame. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Bryant College.
Mr. O’Connell was a communicant of St. Brendan Church, and a former member of the Board of Directors of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island. He enjoyed reading, studying history, golfing, ballroom dancing, and was a devoted Boston Red Sox fan.
Always a consummate professional, Mr. O’Connell was a member of the RI Association of Public Accountants, and a member of the Municipal Finance Officers Association. He viewed service to the community very seriously, working to create the Municipal Cooperative Data Processing System, which enabled access to computer services, for the first time, for 32 RI cities and towns.
Charles was recognized for his many contributions to society, including being Vice Chairman & Treasurer of the East Prov Bi-centennial Committee. In recognition of work he did as acting City
Manager, on 1972 August 21, he received a commendation by the City Council. November 28, 1990 was designated “Charles O’Connell Day” by the City Council. The EP Central Little League also gave him a plaque of appreciation for support that he gave them.
Charles was a United States Army Air Corp Veteran, serving during World War II where he received the World War II Victory Medal, and also the U.S. Army Occupation Medal with Japan clasp, Cold War Service Medal for service on Okinawa and was attached to the 8th Air Corp, 22nd Air Depo, Crash Boat Unit. He also participated in the first Philippine Independence Celebration in 1946.
He is survived by two daughters, Kathleen Tripp and her husband Kenneth of Louisville, KY and Eleanor O’Connell, his longtime caregiver, of Riverside; two sons, Charles “Chuck” O’Connell and his wife Rachel of Mendon, MA, and Daniel O’Connell and his companion Donna Avery of Coventry; a sister, Margaret “Peggy” LaMarre of Riverside; six grandchildren, Yvette, Justin, Eamon, Chip, Julie and Sarah and two great grandchildren, Cody and Brady. He was the father of the late Patricia Corbin, father-in-law of the late Jill O’Connell, and brother of the late Helen Dorr, Loretta MacDonald, James, Joseph, and Mary O’Connell.
His funeral will be held on Wednesday March 6, 2024, from the W. RAYMOND WATSON FUNERAL HOME, 350 Willett Avenue, Riverside at 9:15 a.m. with a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Brendan Church, Turner Avenue, Riverside at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery.
Calling hours are Tuesday 4-7 p.m. Contributions in Mr. O’Connell’s memory to a charity of your choice would be deeply appreciated.
To the entire O’Connell Family my deepest condolences. Mr. O’Connell has always been a gentle kind hearted soul and I was fortunate enough to grow up across the street. Godspeed Mr. O’Connell may you once again run like the wind free as a bird. RIP.
We enjoyed spending Thanksgiving and Christmas with Ellie and Mr. O’Connell.
I thought and prayers !
Love
The English’s
We were truely sorry to hear of Uncle Charles passing. He was kind and generious. I have great memories of conversations with Uncle Charlie. I never realized that I would also complete over 37 yrs as an Accoutant. I purchased farm acre and grow tropical fruits and veggies. I was never able to get glads to bloom. I’m just glad I didn’t need to tackle publical budgeting as he did. That took courage. We will have you in our thoughts and prayers.
We were truely sorry to hear of Uncle Charles passing. We was kind and generious. I have great memories of conversations with Uncle Charlie. I never realized that I would also complete over 37 yrs as an Accoutant. I purchased farm acre and grow tropical fruits and veggies. I was never able to get glads to bloom. I’m just glad I didn’t need to tackle publical budgeting as he did. That took courage. We will have you in our thoughts and prayers.
My dear Uncle and Godfather persevered through serious medical trials these past few years but his smile and the twinkle in his eyes never changed.
Kathy, Chuck, Ellie and Danny please know that you have my prayers. Your Dad was very special. I love you Uncle and will miss you and Uncle Jack very much.
Our deepest condolences to Miss Ellie and her family on this sad time, from our Department of Medical Records at Rhode Island Hospital.
Very sorry for the loss of you father. Thinking of you.
Your Stone cousins are very sorry to hear this news. We remember him fondly. Our sincere condolences for your loss.
One of the world true heroes that defended our freedom. He also was a hero that raised a family that truly love him . God bless uncle RIP !!!
My heart felt condolences to my brother in law’s family. You are all very special to me as you were to your late Uncle Jack. So hard to lose your uncle and your father in the same month.
Praying for you all. Love, Auntie [email protected]
To the O’Connell Family,He was alway’s a Gentleman to deal with.
May he Rest in Peace and God Bless Him.
Our entire family was always very proud of my Uncle Charlie. He was so good hearted and loyal. Sending much love to my cousins, their spouses and their children.
Fond memory – Uncle Charlie always called me Lolly Lou.
XO