Richard James O'Connell

Mr. Richard J. OConnell, of Keystone Heights passed away Sunday, January 20, 2019. He was for many years a Science teacher at Keystone Heights High School where he prepared many students for college and where he was recognized for his teaching ability. He was also on occasion Department Chair. Richard was survived by his beloved wife, the former Rosemary Hollibaugh, who died shortly afterward on January 23, 2019. Both had been ill and in separate facilities of Shands Medical Center. They were both long-time members of St. William Parish in Keystone Heights where Richard was a member of the Knights of Columbus.Richard was born in New York City to Patricia and Vincent OConnell and relocated with his first wife, Gloria, to Florida to do graduate studies in Veterinary Science and Science Education at the University of Florida in Gainesville. He received his Master of Science Education degree in 1983. Gloria passed away in 2007, and Richard was blessed to later marry Rosemary who had also been widowed. They were married at St. William Church. An avid sports fan, he wholly supported the Jaguars and the Gators and was always ready to discuss their merits.He is also survived by his sister, Joan Thomas of Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania, brother-in-law Tim Thomas and nephews Andrew and William Thomas who will dearly miss their "Uncle ROC." He was a wonderful uncle who spent almost every Christmas holiday with them in Pennsylvania. A catholic vigil will be held at St. William Church for Richard on Wednesday, January 30, 2019, from 7-8 p.m. with Father Mike Williams presiding. A Memorial Mass will be jointly celebrated for Richard and Rosemary at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 31, 2019, at St. William Church with Father Andy Mitera presiding. Interment will follow at the Keystone Heights Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME, 340 E. WALKER DR. KEYSTONE HEIGHTS, FL 32656. 352-473-3176.www.jonesgallagherfh.com Cemetery Keystone Heights Cemetery State Road 100 West Keystone Heights FL 32656 US Vigil Wednesday, January 30, 2019 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM St. William Catholic Church 275 Satsuma Street Keystone Heights FL 32656 US Memorial Mass Thursday, January 31, 2019 10:00 AM - St. William Catholic Church 275 Satsuma Street Keystone Heights FL 32656 US Funeral Home Jones - Gallagher Funeral Home - Keystone Heights 340 East Walker Drive Keystone Heights FL - 32656 US (352) 473-3176