McConnell, Donald J.
Donald J. McConnell, 91, of Ellington, loving husband of Phyllis (Martin) CahillMcConnell passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 20, 2021. Donald was
born on May 21, 1930 in Newark, New Jersey, son of the late James and Eugenie McConnell. He was raised in Irvington, NJ, attended local schools and was a graduate of Seton Hall Prep School. He received his Bachelor's Degree from Seton Hall University and his Master's of Divinity from Immaculate Conception Seminary. Donald also earned two Master's Degrees (Latin American Studies and Education Policy) from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 1971. In his earlier years Donald served as a Roman Catholic Priest in the Archdiocese of Newark. He also served as a Maryknoll missionary in Chile and Bolivia. He was later appointed by Gov. Ella Grasso as Executive Director of the Connecticut Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission (CADAC), where he served for 20 years. He attended St. Bernard Church in Rockville. Donald was an avid golfer, downhill skier and he loved the ocean. He enjoyed spending time at
the Jersey shore with family and friends throughout his life.
In addition to his wife Phyllis, he is survived by his son Michael McConnell, his step-daughter Sherry Kraus and her husband Bob, two step-sons; Jason Cahill and his wife June and Sean Cahill. His six grandchildren Zachary Kraus, Spencer “Benny” Kraus, Connor Cahill, McKenna Cahill, Ryan Kelley-Cahill and Justin Kelley-Cahill, his first spouse Suzanne McConnell and several nieces, nephews, cousins and their families. In addition to his parents, Donald was predeceased by his son Daniel McConnell, his daughter Julie McConnell, and his two brothers Kenneth McConnell and Arthur Schaub.
A time of visitation for family and friends along with a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at a date, time and place to be announced in the Spring of 2022. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Little Sisters of the Poor or to the Alzheimer's Association, CT. Chapter. To leave an online condolence please visit www.carmonfuneralhome.com