Edward F. "Eddie" O'Connell

Eddie had several health issues he had been fighting since December of 2024, from which he was unable to recover. He is survived by his loving wife, Karen C. (Carlson) O’Connell, of Cape Coral, FL., sons, Brian E. O’Connell and wife Krystal of Buena Vista, CO., Michael D. O’Connell of Rockport, MA., daughter, Kristina M. O’Connell of Cape Coral, FL. Eddie is also survived by his brother William D. O’Connell of Cape Coral, FL., brother-in-law Ronald E. Carlson and wife Cheryl of Ft. Myers, FL., sister-in-law Susan M. Naraghi and husband Ali of Worcester, MA., grandchildren Keyshawn M. O’Connell and wife Daimeliz of Worcester, MA., Sean P.M. O’Connell and wife Mystie of Denver, CO., Kylie P. O’Connell of Gloucester, MA., Eric H. O’Connell of Gloucester, MA., and great-grandson, Liam A.J. O’Connell of Denver, CO., as well as several nephews and nieces and extended family throughout the country. Eddie was predeceased by his parents, John B. O’Connell and Gloria R. Crouch.

Eddie was born in Worcester, MA. He graduated from Grafton High School in 1964 where he played football. In 1965, Eddie enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. During his time in the USMC, he was awarded the National Defense Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Pistol Sharpshooter, and Rifle Expert. He was Honorably Discharged in 1967 as E-4, Full Corporal. After his discharge from The Corps, he had some short-term jobs, he enrolled and graduated from the Police Academy. Eddie served as a Police Officer for 35 years for the City of Worcester, MA., the majority of his service on the Vice Squad and S.W.A.T. Eddie received numerous awards, citations, and commendations during his service, was Drum Sergeant of the Worcester Police Pipe & Drums, Outstanding Police Officer of the Year in 1999, and was awarded the Key to the City of Worcester by the mayor in 2006 upon his retirement, then moved to Cape Coral, Fl.

Eddie served as an altar boy at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Worcester, was a tenor and loved to sing, was a member of several singing groups such as the Marradors Doo Wop group in Worcester, and others. He was president of Division 36 of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and loved to sing Irish music as well. He was a longstanding member of the International Brotherhood of Police Officers, Sergeant At Arms of the Worcester Policeman’s Union, and member of The American Legion Post 435.

In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation in Eddie’s name to The American Legion 435, 267 Providence Street, Worcester, MA. 01607. May he rest in peace. SEMPER FI!