John Frederick Donnell, Jr.

John Frederick Donnell, Jr., a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on March 10, 2025, at the age of 86 in Austin, Texas. John was born on June 3, 1938, in Norfolk, Virginia, to John F. Donnell, Sr. and Janice Styron Donnell. As a Navy brat, he had the opportunity to live in various places, including Hawaii, the Philippines, and numerous states across the U.S. Though he lived in many locations, John considered Flour Bluff, Texas, his hometown, where he graduated from high school in 1956.

After high school, John proudly served in the United States Army for six years. Following his discharge, he returned to Texas A&I University in Kingsville, Texas, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business, specializing in Finance. It was during his time in Kingsville that John met the love of his life, Mary McClanahan. On December 31, 1965, John and Mary began their life together, spending 59 years building a strong, loving, and Christ-centered family.

John initially worked in the financial field before transitioning to Celanese Chemical Corporation, where he worked as an analyzer technician until his retirement in 2000. He was known for his work ethic and dedication. During his time at Celanese, John also attained his EMT certification, reflecting his commitment to serving others in any capacity.

John was deeply involved in his faith and community, particularly in the Kingsville Church of Christ, where he served for 37 years. He held various roles within the church, including deacon, youth leader, camp counselor, benevolence coordinator, and a dedicated participant in yearly missions. His heart for children was evident in his service activities, always seeking ways to make a difference in the lives of young people. In 2004, John and Mary moved to Bastrop, Texas, where they created their own paradise on family land. Continuing his desire to serve in the faith community, John took on the duties of treasurer for his Bastrop church family.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Mary K. Donnell; his daughters, Jonetta Grace Rice (Mark), Erin K. Hughes (Heath), and Amberly M. Espinosa (Sam); his brother, Carl Donnell (Diana); his sister, Marie Galloway (Scott); and his grandchildren, Jared Rice, Mitchell Rice, Melea Rice, Hunter Hughes (Brooke), Dillon Hughes (Lauren), Sydney Espinosa, Samuel Espinosa, and Nicholas Espinosa. He also leaves behind two great-grandsons, Knox Hughes and Mottley Hughes. John was preceded in death by both of his parents.

A celebration of John's life will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 3:00 pm at The Heart of Texas Church of Christ, located at 652 Highway 304, Bastrop, Texas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Sunny Glen Children's Home (www.sunnyglen.org), an organization that aligns with John’s heart for helping children.

John will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his church, and his community. He loved the Lord with all his heart and his legacy of kindness, service, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.