<cl>Gerald “Jerry” M. and Joanne M. O’Donnell
Gerald M. O’Donnell Oct. 27, 1930 – May 25, 2026 (Age 95)
Joanne M. O’Donnell Jan. 19, 1935 – April 22, 2026 (Age 91)
With deep sorrow we announce the passing of Gerald M. O’Donnell and Joanne M. O’Donnell. Joanne passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, at the age of 91. Just over a month later, Jerry followed his beloved wife on May 25, 2026, at the age of 95.
Born in Grafton, West Virginia, to George and Lelia O’Donnell, Jerry was raised in the Washington, D.C. area, spending fond childhood summers with his Aunt Elenore and Uncle Earl in Clarksburg, West Virginia. A proud graduate of St. John’s College High School, he went on to serve his country during the Korean War as a captain in the U.S. Army combat engineers. Upon his return, Jerry furthered his education, graduating from Georgetown University and The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law.
Jerry practiced law for over 45 years in Alexandria. A dedicated professional, he was appointed the first Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Trustee in the Alexandria Division of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. He served in this capacity with distinction for over 33 years before retiring.
Joanne was born in Alexandria, Virginia, to Wilbur and Helen May, the eldest of ten children, she attended St. Mary’s Grade School and graduated from St. Mary’s Academy. In addition to being the loving heart of the O’Donnell home and dedicated caretaker of their five boys, Joanne worked side-by-side with Jerry as the office manager for his law practice until their retirement. In retirement Joanne and Jerry focused their time and efforts on family and friends, bringing support, joy, and laughter to all those who knew them.
Jerry and Joanne shared an extraordinary love story, celebrating over 70 years of marriage. Together, they built a beautiful life centered around faith, family, and a lifelong love of the beach. Their home in Bethany Beach, Delaware, served as a constant and cherished gathering spot for their ever-growing family.
They are survived by five devoted sons: Kevin, Brian, Philip, Mark, and Keith. Their remarkable legacy of love also lives on in 14 cherished grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought them immense joy.
Because they were rarely apart in life, it is only fitting we celebrate their lives together. A combined memorial service honoring Jerry and Joanne will be held at Blessed Sacrament Church in Alexandria, Virginia, on June 26, 2026, at 11 a.m.. A reception celebrating their remarkable journey will immediately follow the service at Clyde’s of Mark Center.