John J. Donnelly Sr. passed away on Tuesday, February 14, 2023. John was born on October 13, 1927 in Bronx, NY to John and Kathleen Donnelly.
He is survived by his son John Donnelly Jr. and his sister Peggy Donnelly Nielson, his grandchildren Ryan Patrick Donnelly, Heather Donnelly Mannion, Terrence Patrick Donnelly II, Kayla Jean Donnelly-Winters and Sean Anthony Donnelly, and his great grandchildren, Haylee Grace Donnelly and Mila June Donnelly.
John was a veteran of the Korean War and World War II and served in the US Navy during both wars. He was a gifted dancer for all of his life, winning many competitions, and was incredibly proud to have danced for Ed Sullivan during his time in the Navy. He was full of life and never failed to make the entire room laugh wherever he went. When he was living in Massachusetts, he loved to raise boxer dogs on his property in the mountains.
John was also a very talented boxer and even ran his own gym, where he trained other people to fight. As he got older, John moved to Florida and made many friends during his time there. He was a very special person and was truly loved by everyone he knew. He will be sorely missed. John is now reunited with his son Terrence Patrick Donnelly in heaven, who passed on September 12th, 1997.
FUNERAL NOTICE: Graveside services will be held, Friday, March 3, 2023 at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Cemetery in the Monsignor Riedl section. Dery Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.