John J. O'Donnell

Devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and cherished friend, John J. “Jack” O’Donnell, 95, of Morton, Pennsylvania passed away peacefully at home on December 5, 2025. Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 53 years, Jean O’Donnell (nee Teetsel), and his daughter, Virginia Cole. Jack was also predeceased by his sister, Claire O’Connor and brother, Hugh O’Donnell. He is survived by five children, Kathleen Pfeffer (the late Jack), John O’Donnell (Mary Beth), Jeanmarie Warrington (James), Daniel O’Donnell (Patti), and Rev. Paul O’Donnell; his son-in-law Michael Cole (Nancy), ten grandchildren, Jennifer Barrett, Laura O’Donnell, Kristin Scanlon, Daniel O’Donnell, Madeline O’Donnell, Peter O’Donnell, John Cole, Brian Cole, Kathleen Cole, and Thomas Cole. He is also survived by nine great grandchildren.

Born in McAdoo, Pennsylvania, Jack was the son of the late Hugh and Beatrice O’Donnell (nee Mc Geehan). While a student at McAdoo High School, Jack played on several varsity teams, and in 1945, was a member of the Pennsylvania State Basketball Championship Team. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Health and Physical Education at West Chester State Teachers College, and his Master of Education Degree from Temple University. Jack served proudly in the United States Marine Corps, always reflecting the values of honor, courage, and commitment.

Jack became a dedicated and respected teacher, and settled in Morton with his wife, Jean to raise their six children. Jack taught Health and Physical Education and coached the track and soccer teams at Ridley North Junior High School for 35 years. Students and colleagues alike admired his patience, good humor, and dedication. Years after his retirement, Jack would often be greeted warmly by former students and athletes throughout the community. In 2004, Jack received the Presidents’ Award for Retired Coaches from the Ridley Township Old Timers.

Jack was a man of deep faith and an active member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, embodying the spirit of service and fellowship in his community. An avid lover of the outdoors and sports, Jack spent many hours gardening, and playing tennis at Granite Run and Idle Hour Tennis Clubs. He also enjoyed swimming, cycling, skiing and walking. He delighted in teaching and coaching his children the game of tennis.

Jack’s family brought him great joy, and was truly at the heart of his life, and always at the top of his priorities. He particularly loved spending time with family at the dinner table, around the pool, and on the beach in Sea Isle City. His humility and generous spirit immediately made anyone who spent time with him feel special. Those lucky enough to be counted as family felt loved unconditionally. Jack was always ready and willing to lend a hand, with a winning smile and a kind, unassuming manner.

Family and friends may call Monday, December 15, 2025, from 10:00-11:00 AM at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 2130 Franklin Ave, Morton, PA 19070, followed by Jack’s Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM. Interment at SS Peter & Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA 19064.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 2130 Franklin Ave, Morton, PA 19070, or to the Virginia O’Donnell Cole Scholarship Fund, Mount St. Mary’s University (msmary.edu), 16300 Old Emmitsburg Rd, Emmitsburg, MD 21727.