Laurence James O'Donnell

Mount Marion - Laurence James O’Donnell (aka Larry, Dad, and Poppie), of Park Circle, Mount Marion, NY, passed away quickly and peacefully at Health Alliance Hospital in Kingston, NY, surrounded both physically and virtually by his vast loving family. He valiantly made a series of daily choices with the hope of extending his life with cancer, like, among other things, showing up at the hospital and treating himself to a series of potentially life-saving drugs until one of them worked. Larry chose the possibility of life over certain death. Describing this journey as a roller coaster is a good fit for him, because for all of us who adored this soul of a man, this felt like a series of twists and turns and ups and downs, much like daily life; but with twistier twists and deeper turns. But, as observers of his daily choices, Larry leaves behind a legacy from his example on how to love our families, and to teach others how to live each day to the fullest. “Living each day like it’s the last”, would be a veritable quote to use when describing our beloved family member. He was born on July 30, 1942 to the late Kathyrn Kelly and Laurence O’Donnell in Brooklyn, NY, but later moved to County Mayo in Ireland. He eventually returned to NY where he met his beautiful Bernadette Maloney (deceased July 2004), and instantly fell in love, got married, and started a family. Larry is survived by his 3 sons, Christian (Renee) O’Donnell, James O’Donnell, and Michael O’Donnell. He also has 3 gorgeous granddaughters, Arielle, Ella, and Bernadette (Baby B.) O’Donnell. They brought their Poppie tremendous joy, and were incredibly loved by him and reciprocally, they loved him immensely as well. He is survived by his sister, Betty O’Donnell-Healy (Sean) of County Mayo, Ireland and her children. Larry enjoyed riding his bicycle long distances, exercising and working out. He loved a good chin-up challenge, and almost always beat his competitor! Taking long peaceful walks just taking in the beauty of this special space he called home, reflecting on his blessed life was an especially favorite hobby of his. Larry also enjoyed his “Roku”, especially YouTube. Anytime he had the chance, he would ask for help with the remote, and pull up a series of his favorite videos. Some favorites wereRita Hayworth and Fred Astaire dance scenes. Watching clips about how different food products were made was another favorite of his. Larry was famous for his beef stew recipe which he recently taught one of his beloved granddaughters. We will cherish every time she makes it in memory of her beloved Poppie! Larry worked as a butcher for over 30 years, mostly at Shoprite Supermarkets in the local area and then retired. But as expected, his retirement lasted for about 2 months, and he returned part-time to the profession of which he loved to be referred to as “The Master Butcher”. The title fit him well! He would spend a good part of his shifts just chatting with his loyal customers. Larry loved talking with anyone who would listen. He always had something intriguing to talk about. Being social was an understatement for Larry! During the past month, Larry enjoyed attending afternoon Mass with his granddaughters, Arielle and Ella, at St. Anthony’s Friary in Catskill. This was a great blessing to them both, being able to spend time together with the Lord just before his passing. The week before being brought Home, Larry went to visit the Sisters, and it is clear that the Holy Spirit was dwelling in him during this time, preparing his soul for a peaceful journey into Heaven. Quoting from his favorite book, The Holy Bible, 2 Corinthians 5:8, “We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.” His visitation will be on Monday, March 25th, 4-7 pm at Buono Funeral Home in Saugerties, NY. A private funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 26th. Condolences may be shared on Larry’s memorial page at buonofuneralservice.com. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Larry’s honor to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation. You can send your gift to: The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, P.O. Box 414238, Boston, MA 02241-4238, or call a representative at 1-203-229-0464.

Laurence James O'Donnell

July 30, 1942 - March 20, 2024

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

Laurence James O'Donnell

July 30, 1942 - March 20, 2024

365 Days of Grief Support

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information