Gerald "Jerry" Francis O'Connell

Gerald Francis “Jerry” O’Connell, age 90, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026. Jerry was born on July 1, 1935, in Buffalo, New York. He graduated from Angola High School in 1952 and began his career with the Courier Express. After two years, he proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956. Following his military service, Jerry returned to the Courier Express, where he worked until the newspaper closed in 1982. Seeking new opportunities, Jerry moved his family to Columbus, Ohio, and joined The Columbus Dispatch in the advertising department. Through hard work, dedication, and strong leadership, he advanced throughout his career and was named Vice President of Sales in 1992. He remained with The Dispatch until his retirement in 2000. In 1959, Jerry married the love of his life, Anne Marie O’Connell. Together they built a life centered on family, faith, and friendship, sharing more than six decades of marriage. Jerry was a devoted fan of the Buffalo Bills and The Ohio State Buckeyes. He loved golfing and looked forward each year to spending time at their home in Bonita Springs, Florida, where he enjoyed relaxing on the beach and making memories with family and friends. Above all, Jerry cherished time spent with his family and took immense pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His steady presence, sense of humor, and love for those around him will be remembered always. Jerry is survived by his daughters, Patricia “Patty” Mooney, Maureen O’Connell, Colleen O’Connell Gale, and Kathleen “Kathy” O’Connell Serafin; his grandchildren, Kelley Mooney, Megan O’Connell, Michael Mooney, Brianna Serafin, Michael Serafin, Alexa Cherundolo, and Joshua O’Connell; and his great-grandchildren, Leyton Mooney, Ava Tallon, and Emma Tallon. He is also survived by his brother, Francis (Maureen) O’Connell; his sisters, Mary Ann (late Joe) Crapsi and Nancy (Jayd Mollnar) Catalino; sister-in-law, Joye Kane; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. In addition to his beloved wife, Anne Marie O’Connell, Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Francis “Bud” O’Connell and Margaret “Peg” O’Connell; his sisters, Margaret (Ron) Laski and Donna (Frank) Muscato; and his brother, David O’Connell. Family will receive friends on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Rutherford Funeral Home at Powell, 450 W. Olentangy Street, Powell, Ohio 43065. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, 82 E. William Street, Delaware, Ohio 43015, with Father Denis Kigozi serving as Celebrant. Entombment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery.

Gerald "Jerry" Francis O'Connell

July 1, 1935 - June 11, 2026