Northborough – Edward D. Donnelly, aged 72 years old and a longtime resident of Northborough, passed away suddenly on February 28, 2022, while vacationing in Destin, Florida.
Ed was the beloved husband of 14 years to Laurel L. (MacKinnon) and the devoted brother to his seven siblings, Maureen Donnelly, Thomas Donnelly, James Donnelly, Mary McKenney, Frank Donnelly, Sean Donnelly and Joseph Donnelly and an uncle to his many nieces and nephews. A sister, Theresa Donnelly, preceded Ed in death.
Born and raised in Lowell, Massachusetts, Ed was a son to the late Edward and Theresa (Sullivan) Donnelly. After his graduation from high school Ed made the patriotic decision to enlist in the U.S. Army where he honorably served as a medic with the 173d Airborne Brigade ECO 4/503 Recon Airborne Infantry during Vietnam. During this time, Ed’s courageous dedication to his missions resulted in the receiving of two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star. A testament to his service, friends and relatives have lovingly referred to Ed as “Deputy, Recon or Doc”.
Upon his return to civilian life Ed never forgot the service by those who served before, with, and after him.
Throughout his life he would dedicate his time and efforts towards the supporting of many veteran organizations. He was Past Deputy Commander of the Vincent F. Picard American Legion Post 234 of Northborough, life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Past Commander of the Westborough VFW Post 9013, life member of the Intl. Society of the 173d Airborne Brigade, All American Member of the 82d Airborne Div. Association, and life member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart. In addition, Ed would always make himself available to any veteran in need.
For numerous years Ed was employed within the Massachusetts Welfare & Mass. Rehab. Agencies. He later refocused his employment to the Local 509 Service Employees Intl. Union where he remained until his retirement in 2009.
Calling hours will be held between the hours of 4 – 7 p.m. on Friday, March 11, at Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough. Ed’s funeral will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 12, in the funeral home. Ed will be laid to rest at a future date, following Military Honors, in the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne.
Ed’s family respectfully request you consider making memorial donations in Ed’s name to Fishing With Warriors, Inc., P O. Box 621, Westborough, MA 01581 (www.fishingwithwarriors.us).
To leave a condolence or to share a memory, please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com.
