RAYMOND MCDONNELL Obituary (2021) – Natick, MA

McDONNELL, Raymond F. “Buddy” Age 65, in Warwick, RI, formerly Providence, RI, Lynchburg and Roanoke, VA, died suddenly on November 23, 2021. Loving son of the late Raymond P. and Vernie B. (Farmer) McDonnell . Devoted brother of Lisa McDonnell from Swampscott, MA, Jill and Victor Bradley from Shrewsbury, MA, Jody and Joe Ciccarello from Natick, MA, and Edward “Teddy” McDonnell from Wirtz, VA. Dear Uncle of Randi and Will Gingras, Alexis Bradley, Ashton and Joe Lavoie, Courtney and Matt Lemanski, Jillaine and Reed Brown, Danielle and Gil Ward and Joey Ciccarello. He is also survived by many great nieces and great nephews. In his classically modest way, Buddy embodied friendliness and refinement. He was the most thoughtful and generous man anyone could know. He had a grumbling laugh that would make you laugh without knowing why. Although he was calm, his presence in a room could be felt immensely. Without saying a word, its nature could magically make you feel calm and safe. There never seems to be enough time to tell a person how valued and loved they are. All of our memories are filled with the happiness of having Buddy in our lives. How do you fill this space in your life when such an important piece is missing? Buddy was so much to different people. He made such an impression on us all, quietly and modestly. He was a phenomenal figure skating coach who had many champions to his credit. He loved sports, especially the Indianapolis Colts. He spent many Sundays watching soccer with Teddy and his close friend Richard. Buddy was an exceptional cook and was always happy to share his creations and delicious recipes. He loved dogs and rescued many of them from animal shelters. He’s been a dedicated employee who hasn’t skipped a day at Verizon in all of his years. He loved his family dearly and was always there to help when he was most needed. Buddy was above all a beloved son, brother, and friend. A private family funeral is to take place. In honor of Buddy, everyone is invited to attend a celebration of life at the Morse Tavern, 85 East Central Street, Natick, MA, on Sunday, November 28, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. Longstanding member of the IBEW. In lieu of flowers, a Buddy memorial donation can be made to Angell Animal Medical Center, 350 South Huntington Ave., Jamaica Plain, MA 02130. The guest book is available at www.everettfuneral.com John Everett & Sons Natick 508 653 4342

Check out the online memorial to Raymond F. “Buddy” McDONNELL

Published by Boston Globe November 26-27, 2021.