Jeremiah Terrence O'Donnell

Jeremiah Terrence “Jerry” O’Donnell, 89, of Westerville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2026, leaving behind a family that loved him dearly. Born on October 25, 1936, in Rock Island, Illinois, to Alexander and Helen O’Donnell, Jerry grew up with the determination, confidence, and gift of conversation that would define him throughout his life. After graduating from Chaminade High School in Dayton, Ohio, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. His talents and leadership earned him a nomination to the United States Naval Academy, where he walked onto the football team, earned a degree in Engineering, and developed a lifelong devotion to Navy football.

After graduating in June 1961, Jerry served in the Navy Supply Corps, teaching courses and fulfilling his military commitment before embarking on a 30-year career with Ohio Bell and Ameritech. Jerry brought to his career the same qualities he brought to every part of his life: intelligence, determination, and a firm belief that things should be done right the first time.

Fortunately for generations of O’Donnells to come, Jerry’s greatest achievement had nothing to do with football, engineering, or telecommunications. While in New Orleans, he walked into Pat O’Brien’s piano bar and met Carol Balinski. The two married on June 17, 1961, beginning a partnership that lasted a lifetime and produced five children: Kelly, Kevin, Keith, Kathy, and Kris. Family was always at the center of Jerry’s life, whether he was offering advice, sharing stories, or cheering from the sidelines.

Jerry was many things: husband, father, grandfather, Marine, Naval Academy graduate, golfer, football referee, sports fanatic, voracious reader, and expert conversationalist. He loved family gatherings, especially when they involved good food, spirited discussions, and an audience willing to listen to one more story. He followed current events closely and could discuss virtually any topic with confidence—and often at length. His sports loyalties were unwavering. He faithfully cheered for the Cleveland Browns, Cavaliers, and Guardians, rooted passionately for The Ohio State Buckeyes, and reserved a special place in his heart for the Navy Midshipmen.

Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carol; his son, Keith; his parents, Alexander and Helen O’Donnell; his sister, Margaret; and his brothers, Larry and Mike. He is survived by his children, Kelly O’Donnell, Kathy Mockler, Kevin (Lisa) O’Donnell, and Kris O’Donnell; his grandchildren, Meghan, Kelsey, Mallory, Erin, and Evan; his sister, Helen; his brothers, Terry and Jim; and many nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family members who will forever remember his sharp mind, quick wit, generous heart, and unmistakable presence.

Those who knew Jerry will remember his quick wit, sharp mind, and unwavering loyalty to the people and teams he loved. He never met a sports season he couldn't analyze, a newspaper he wouldn't read cover to cover, or a family gathering he couldn't make more entertaining. His greatest pride was his family, and his greatest gift was the example he set through a life of service, perseverance, and devotion.

While his family will miss hearing his stories and opinions firsthand, they take comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on in the values he instilled, the memories he created, and the laughter he shared.

A visitation will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, July 6, 2026, at St. Peter Roman Catholic Church, 6899 Smoky Row Road, Columbus, Ohio 43235, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. Burial will immediately follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 9571 North High Street, Lewis Center, Ohio 43035.

In place of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Telephone Pioneers of America in Jerry’s honor.