Robert A. O'Connell

Robert Aloysius O’Connell, 86, passed away on November 9, 2024. Born in Richmond, VA but raised in Yeadon, then Drexel Hill, he was a true son of Delaware County. Bob was a proud alumnus of West Catholic High School and St. Joseph’s University.

He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Frances Tryson O’Connell, his children Maureen O’Connell, Meg Pensabene (Joe), Dan O’Connell and Eileen O’Connell, his sister Mary Lou Newby (John, dec’d), and his stepson Michael Stoughton (Jennifer). He was predeceased by his parents, George O’Connell and Sarah Maher O’Connell, and his twin sister, Barbara McCloskey (Leo, dec’d). He was affectionately known as Ol’ Boy to his 7 grandchildren and step-grandchildren, and he was known by far too many nicknames to mention among his nieces, nephews and their extended families.

After several years of working for his uncle’s CPA firm, he left to start his own successful practice in 1970, retiring in 2017 (though he never touched a computer) but continued to prepare tax returns for several of his clients out of their mutual fondness. He was active in all communities in which he lived, coaching Little League, refereeing basketball games, and acting as HOA representative for Runnymede Farms and Canter Village. He loved to watch the news, if for no other reason than to comment on the sports jackets and tie combos of the newscasters. He was an avid sports fan; he appreciated Mike Schmidt, Steve Carlton, and any athlete who shied away from the media, as he shared their sense of humility.

He met Frances Oschell in 1997, and their bond was instant. They married in May of 1998. He and Fran enjoyed many years together, with trips, summers in Long Beach Island, and time spent with their many friends. Bob and Fran took care of one another until his last days.

Bob was happiest when spending time with his extended family, sharing laughs with his sisters and their families in Drexel Hill over the years. He also loved supporting alumni events for West Catholic High School (class of 1955) and St. Joe’s University (class of 1959). Okie loved socializing, enjoying cocktails with others, and sharing a laugh, whether with him or at him. His genuineness, his good humor, his heart, his presence was a comfort to all and will be sadly missed.

Funeral mass will be held at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church, 2400 N. Providence Road, Media, PA on Friday, November 15 at 11:00am. Visitation will precede the mass from 10:00am-10:45am. Burial will follow services in SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery, Springfield.

 In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to West Catholic Preparatory School at https://www.westcatholic.org/alumi-and-giving/in-memoriam.