John F. O'Connell

John (Jack) O’Connell Jr, of Woodstock, GA drifted to heaven with his wife and children tightly by his side Monday June 26, 2023. Born March 18,1947 in Hartford, CT to John O’Connell and Claire Messier. Jack grew up in Hartford and Bloomfield, graduating from Bloomfield High School in 1965. From 1966-1968, Jack served in the United States Naval Construction Battalions, Navy Seabees. He served a tour in Vietnam from 1967-1968. He was a E-5 crew leader working as a heavy equipment operator and mechanic.
Upon returning from Vietnam, Jack took several college courses with a focus in environmental health and real estate. Jack rocked out at the Woodstock Music Festival in 1969. In 1970, Jack met his best friend and beautiful wife Sandy. They lived in Granby, CT until 1997 when they relocated to Woodstock, GA. They spent over 50 years on an amazing adventure that included raising their four children Ryan, Carli, John and Bridget (Seth). They created fabulous homes, gardens, and enjoyed beach vacations, holidays and many family memories. Jack was the ultimate salesman, selling wholesale building products for over 30 years. He enjoyed retirement with his wife and children; creating an oasis of a backyard that attracted several birds, specimen trees and exotic plants and flowers.
Jack was a kind soul with a love for the outdoors, plants, the earth and mankind. Jack spoiled his family with love and unconditional dedication and support. In addition to his wife and children, Jack leaves behind three grandsons, Jay, Kaden and Henry, his sister Donna Choquette, many sister and brother in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews. Jack was predeceased by his son John O’Connell, and his two sisters Kimberly Cormier and Debbie Mandirola. A private family burial will take place at the Veterans National Cemetery in Canton, GA.  Memorial Donations may be made to Cherokee County Animal Shelter 1015 Univeter Rd, Canton, GA 30115.