James F. O'Connell, Jr.

James F. O’Connell, Jr., 87, of Springfield, died April 27, 2025 at the Life Care Center of Wilbraham surrounded by his loved ones. Born in Monson on May 24, 1937, he was the son of the late James F. O’Connell, Sr. and Viola (Swartz). He proudly served our country for over 35 years in the Army and the Navy Seabees, retiring as a First Sergeant.

He drove truck for many local companies, and also worked at the post office for many years as a motor vehicle operator. He was also a motor vehicle craft director for the American Postal Workers Union for six years until he retired in 2006. He was a member of the Polish American Veterans of Wilbraham, the VFW, as well as several other veterans’ groups. He was an avid NY Giants fan, and enjoyed spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Helen M. (Kozicki) O’Connell, three children, Jacqueline O’Connell of Ludlow, James F. O’Connell, III of Monson and John O’Connell of Ludlow. He was predeceased by an infant son, Timothy Michael O’Connell. He also leaves three grandchildren, Richard O’Connell of Southwick, Daniel O’Connell of Monson, and his “buddy” Dr. Briana O’Connell of Somerville, and three great-grandchildren, Hunter, Sophia and Isabella O’Connell, a sister, Bonnie Namiot and her husband Bob of Rehoboth, and many nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Helyn Ann O’Connell.

Calling Hours will be on Tuesday, May 6, from 4-7pm at Nowak Funeral & Cremation Services, 15 Ludlow Ave., Springfield. His funeral will be on Wednesday, May 7, gathering at 10am at the funeral home followed by his Funeral Mass at 11am at Immaculate Conception Church, and then Committal Services with Military Honors at the MA Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Agawam at 1pm. To leave Jim’s family an online condolence, please visit www.nowakfuneral.com.

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