Joseph T. O’Donnell, Jr.
July 30, 1951 - July 19, 2023
Joseph T. O’Donnell, Jr., age 71, of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 19, 2023.
Born on July 30, 1951, he was raised in Newark, DE and graduated from Christiana High School in 1969. Joe served in the US Army as the general’s chauffer from 1970 to 1974. From there, he co-owned the Donut Haven in the New Castle Farmer’s Market for many years before opening his own bakery, Joe’s Doughs. During his last years, Joe drove for Cowan Trucking until he retired 2 years ago.
He loved his girls, cooking, cars, sailboats, and his cats. Joe was an easy-going man who had a great sense of humor. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Marie and Joseph T. O’Donnell, Sr. and his first wife, Kennisa O’Donnell. He is survived by his sisters, Cathy Fenimore (Mark) and Donna Gebhart (Carrol); daughters, Ashley August (Brian), Celia Sloan (Chris), Erin Noonan (Mike), and Liza O’Donnell; 11 grandchildren; and former wife, Debbie Gans-O’Donnell.
A graveside service will be held at 11 am on Monday, July 31, 2023, in All Saints Cemetery, 6001 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, DE.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joe’s memory may be made to Faithful Friends Animal Society, 12 Germay Drive, Wilmington, DE 19804 or online by clicking here.
joy greenley
I am so sorry to hear this about Joe! He was really a very special – good guy. He was always upbeat and fun to be with. I pray he’s at peace now.
Julie Drummond
So very sorry to hear your father passed. Prayers to you and the family.
Patsy howaniec
Mike and I will really miss Joe. He was a good friend. Mike helped Joe make doughnuts and I always said they were the best doughnuts ever! Joe would stop by and see us and to show us his new car(s). He talked about his cats. He sure loved them. I loved his stories about travel too. Our sympathy to his family.
Mel Downing
Rest in peace my friend we will all meet again soon my deepest condolences to your family
Don Moore
I’m really sorry to hear about “Odie” Joe.
Carol Barton
Rest in Peace another of our Pilgrim Garden friends. What a nice guy. So sorry for your loss.
Carol (Cannatelli) Barton
Kristin Parson
Erin and family,
I’m so sorry for your loss Erin. Praying for you and your entire family.
Love,
Kristin
Dave Whisman
I have very fond memories of Joe that go all the way back to Jr. High! Another piece of “US” is departed. My condolences to his family!
Kathy Collier
Joe was in Gary and my wedding back 1969. Lots of good memories. Rest in peace Joe.
Rick Lovekin
Joe grew up around the corner from me. Joe was always a gentleman and showed he cared for others. I loved his doughnuts!!! He was a good friend to all he knew. I will always think good of him. GOD BLESS JOE!
Russell Mackie
My condolences and prayers.
Stephanie Delaney
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. May Joe rest in peace.
Joni Cook Handy
Rest in peace Joe.
Jean and Steve Noonan
Such a sad and difficult time. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Fran Donnelly
I’m sorry for your loss. This guy was a major part of my early days(Donut Haven..)
Just can’t picture him not OK. Never knew him to be I’ll. R.I.P.