Joseph Thomas Donnelly

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Joseph T. Donnelly 98, slipped away peacefully at home in the wee hours of December 16, 2023, tended by his devoted daughter, Dee Alexander.

A native of Brooklyn, New York, born July 31, 1925, as the eldest of four children born to Josephine and Thomas Donnelly. A precocious and studious child, at the young age of 16, was hired by the Irving Trust, sparking a lifelong love of business and finance, although his real ambition was to become a lawyer.

Shortly thereafter, WWII cast its long shadow and he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, becoming a Seabee, stationed in Hawaii. Indeed, the Navy was responsible for bringing him to Lake Charles in 1947. He met and married a local girl, remaining in Lake Charles for the rest of his life.

His first local employer and mentor, Ashton Fenet, immediately recognized his business acumen and their successful association remained linked via Gulf Sash and Door, Dunham Price and R.E. Heidt, of whom he became a top executive.

In the ensuing years, membership in various clubs and organizations resulted in outstanding achievement awards, most notably from The Rotary Club and The Association of General Contractors (A.G.C.).

His passion for finance and business never waned upon retirement, as watching Fox Financial News, and reading the Wall Street Journal were a daily ritual. A fixture at local coffee shops, he stayed connected to current events, debating sports and politics with his coffee crew. The camaraderie of fellow bridge players provided real pleasure and friendship.

Upon the passing of his cherished wife, Myrna, in 2021, memories of their worldwide travels over 30 years of marriage, became a favorite pastime. Having had the blessing of good health most of his life his advanced years eventually took their toll and he succumbed to illness, a trooper till the end.

Mr. Donnelly was predeceased by his parents, Josephine and Thomas Donnelly, siblings, Daniel Donnelly (Bertie), Marie Tassey (George), stepdaughters Sheila Joyner (Gary), and Catherine Laudumiey; along with a host of friends and relatives.

He is survived by his daughter, Dee Alexander, stepdaughter Lisa Reuben Ferguson (Jeff) and their daughter Drew, stepson-in-law Gary Joyner (Colleen) their daughter Dr. Maggie Cahill (Harry) and their son Nash, brother-in-law Robert N. Davidson (Lana) and their daughter Cary Tassin (David) and Todd (Shelly). Also, his special sister Genevieve Cordes and daughter Christina Cordes, and numerous nieces, nephews and their extended families scattered far and wide.

A service for Mr. Donnelly will be held Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church at 11:00 am. Cremation was entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home.  Placement of his urn at Consolata Cemetery will be held at a later date.

A heartfelt and special acknowledgement of gratitude for the extraordinary efforts, above and beyond the call of duty; most especially D’Airaka Thompson, R.N, Cathy Nunez and Dajha Freeman, whose assistance proved invaluable on his final journey.

Additionally, the ministrations of OLGC Heartworks team members Kelly Comeaux and Gail Maples provided a continuous source of spiritual solace and sustenance.

And last, but most assuredly not least, the best friends ever, Danny and Alice Guillory, their devotion and kindness are unparalleled, and he was truly blessed by this friendship for many years. To the “Coffee Crew”, order an extra cup of “joe”, for Joe, no doubt he’ll be listening in on the latest “discussions”.

It’s been a long road home, but may you find eternal rest at the end of your journey, Farewell Pop.