I remember Mr. Jack O'Connell fondly. He was a good man who always welcomed everyone into his home. My family has many cherished memories of him, especially his roles in Law & Order and those unforgettable NY State Lotto commercials. His warmth and kindness will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace.

Jack and I were friends for 60 years. We had many good times and adventures together. But the good times were not what I loved most about him. What I most loved was his day-after-day, year-after-year exploration of what it means to live a good and full life, and what it means to be a good person. He seemed to have an inner drive and compass that led him to uncover and evaluate all the things that shape us as people, things like the customs, attitudes, and boundaries that others try to impose on us, as well as those that we impose on ourselves. Are these thing useful and reliable, or are they merely artificial limitations that need to be replaced? He wanted to know where he stood in the grand scheme of things. Would he be happy to be a solid, blue-collar guy from Baldwin with all the pluses and minuses that go with it, or could he be anything he wanted to be as a citizen of the world? That is not an easy approach to life in a world that encourages unquestioned conformity. But Jack was up for the challenge. He kept growing and changing and sharing his findings until his time simply ran out. I admire him for that lifelong quest. He accomplished much along the way. Most importantly, he was a husband and a father, and a friend to many. He shined on many stages, but the brightest light always came from inside him.

Jack was a great man. A good man. A kind man. A multi-talented man. An amazing Family Man. I loved to refer to him as “Jackie O, one of the Nicest Guys in America.”

My Pop-Pop was not just my grandfather; he was my best friend and a true inspiration. Even amid the many kids and grandchildren competing for his attention, he always made me feel special, and for that, I am eternally grateful. From school field trips to softball games, he was my unwavering supporter and role model. My fondest memories are the “special” days we shared together, whether at Jones Beach enjoying what we called “Coast is Clear” or on the softball field, where laughter and smiles were abundant. On the pitching mound, every strike I threw echoed with his proud shout of “Honeychuck” from the dugout. He never missed a game or practice, proving his steadfast commitment. After Hurricane Sandy, he selflessly drove my sister and me to school, going out of his way without hesitation. This is just one example of the remarkable man Jack O’Connell was—a guiding light in our lives, beloved by everyone, from the girls on my softball team to my friends at school. I will cherish our many memories together. I am so thankful I was blessed with such an amazing grandpa. Pop-Pop was very special. I will miss him dearly.

Jack was a very intelligent, insightful person who came to his career as an actor late but naturally.
These talents made him an excellent bartender and he approached that job as seriously as he did sharing the screen with Oscar winners like Meryl Streep.
I'm proud to have known him and prouder still that he knew me.

I was so deeply saddened to hear of Jack's passing. I was actually taken aback.
Jack had such a formidable presence I just assumed he would be here long after, at least me. Perhaps I thought he would always be here since his image is so indelible in the many characters I've seen him create. No matter the length of the role, Jack's presence would always leap off the screen. Like many others who have written here, I would be utterly delighted whenever I would see him on screens both big and small.
And of course my heart breaks for my childhood friend, Margaret. I still lack the words to convey my feelings about this enormous loss for you and your family, Margaret. I'm so very sorry. You and Jack have shown up for me at times that meant so much to me, and I will never forget that. I will also never forget the gentleness of your presence as a couple, and I will never forget Jack. May he rest in peace.
And may peace and strength be with you, too, dear Margaret.

Jack was a good man, he was there when you needed him, he was kind, he was generous and he was funny and I'm going to miss him.

My Grandfather was a special guy. He was truly a light in anyone’s life that he crossed paths with. We spoke almost every day, and he taught me so many things in life—how to be selfless, how to love deeply. He brought me closer to God; after all, he is my godfather. And I’d have to say the best of all is that he taught me how to make a good joke. His comedic timing and satire were unmatched.

I remember, as a little girl, whenever I’d be sitting in the back seat of his car, he’d hold my hand while driving. We’d drive listening to The Beatles, Elton John, and more. I felt safe holding onto him. He was a comforting presence.

He never failed to make the people he loved feel so very special. He sure had a lot of love to pass around, and anyone on the receiving end knows that’s a blessing.

Grief is a long journey, that goes down many paths all leading back to the same sadness. I navigated through it with my mother, and one thing I can say is there is never enough time with the people you love… but how beautiful is it to wait a lifetime to see them again? I’ll wait a lifetime for you Pop Pop. I do believe Jack is looking upon all of his loved ones, and I do believe there will be a day when we all reconnect.

Take this as a reminder that this beautiful life truly is short. One day, it does come to an end. Someone else will drive your car, someone else will live in the home you made memories in, and the material things in life will all fade. But the one thing we leave behind that never leaves is love… and Pop Pop left a lot of love behind.

The depth of that love is a measure for the pain when it’s absent. To feel a lot of pain during loss is because there was a lot of love there in the first place. So if you learned one thing from Jack don’t forget to love fearlessly, openly, expect no reciprocation, no gain. Whenever you feel sad and are fondly missing him, just remember it’s because of the love you share. And that’s truly the meaning of life…

Thanks for making everyday a “special” one Pop Pop, you will be missed deeply.

I knew Jack for about 40 years. Theater was how we met, but it was more personal than that. Our grandchildren went to school together in Long Beach where many of his children lived. I was always amused to see him at events that we shared at the school. Riding on the boardwalk and quick hello. Always a big hug. A big welcoming smile. Of course theater was our main common ground. We shared the same friends. He was family in many ways. Years would go by without seeing each other. But every encounter was Loving, huggy, and filled with joy. Recently had a dinner party for all of our friends that we shared over the years. It was such a wonderful evening. Luckily I have pictures to commemorate our time together. So very sad knowing that I will not be meeting him again in the most unexpected ways. I will never forget his great big hugs. The joy in his face seeing me and me him. What a guy.

I was heartbroken to hear that Jack had passed. While I met him first through Hofstra Theater, I quickly learned he was also a neighbor living only a half a block away.

Jack was a special neighbor. If he was driving home and saw you outside he would often stop his car just to say hi. Always kind with a big smile on his face. When talking with Jack you didn't check your watch, you let Jack talk and enjoyed his stories.

I'll remember Jack and the wild Ring-necked Pheasant that lived in our yards for a few years. Following the bird's adventures became a regular topic of conversation with Jack. How sad he was, we all were, when the bird died.

I also had the opportunity to work with Jack when he performed in a few audiobook projects I directed. He was so talented. I knew his talents from LI Theater, but working with him was really fun. He brought everything to his characters -- even if it was just a word or a line. I loved spotting Jack in a movie, on TV, or in a radio ad -- he had a great presence and a wonderful rich voice.

Sending Margaret and the O’Connell family deepest condolences and many hugs.

Our neighborhood just got a little quieter -- but Jack's memory will live on here.

Margaret,
Thank you for sending. My sincere condolences go out to you and
your family. Jack was definitely one of a kind. He will be missed by
many. May he rest in peace.

I was privileged to look after Jack for 25 years. It was less that of taking care of a patient than it was getting to spend a few valued moments with a good, wise friend.

I was one of jacks mail carriers. He was very kind and we had great conversations and gave me great advice. He will be missed.

My deepest condolences to Liam and the entire O’Connell clan. Praying for you and sending strength as you all navigate through this difficult loss.

My sincere condolences to the O'Connell family. I'm sorry for your loss. Sending you strength today and peace in all the days ahead. May you be comforted by the outpouring of love surrounding you.

Sad to hear of your passing dear Jack!
Thanx for sharing your joy love & kindness with Gene & I.
Love & miss you💕💕

Mark Twain had nothing on you, Jack. You were a magical storyteller. We had countless telephone chats over the years, and when we’d hang up, I was always left with a smile.
I am honored to have been your friend for over 30 years. I am glad I told you this while you were here:
You were blessed with many gifts, a true artist who shared those gifts with the rest of us.
I loved you like a big brother.
You were bigger than life, and now your leaving is like a hundred people just left the room.
God bless you, Jack, and your family.
Kevin

So proud to be in Jack’s version of “Our Town,” at the old firehouse in Point Lookout, about a hundred years ago.
Always a treat to see him and listen to his adventures.

Jack's smile and enthusiasm for life were amazing! He made you feel special, as if you were the only person in the room.
I met Jack over 50 years ago, when my dear friend, Margaret ( the very first person I met in college) took me to a pub in Rockville Centre and told me she met a really great guy. Over the years, we have celebrated birthdays, plays, parties and pure friendship.
May all our happy memories sustain her throughout these difficult days. Love Always, Ann Marie

7.5%. 7.526%

7.25% 1/8point

Fruit
Croissant
Ham
Cheese
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Cooking spray

Butter
Strawberry jelly

Todd murdock



I always found myself hoping we would see Uncle Jack on our family trips to NY and disappointed when our schedules happened to not line up. I have vivid memories as a kid being driven by Uncle Jack to Hampton Bays, he made us laugh riotously on that road trip with his wide-eyed impersonations and loud voice. Forty years later I carry memories of that simple car ride. He was a big personality and a true gentleman.

Dear Margaret and Family, Jacks passing is a huge loss for all who knew him. Met him when I was around 15-16 when he was checking me out to play Emily Webb for this play Our Town. I thought he was stalking me in Gelo's drug store but after chatting with me I could see he was someone I should be friends with and speaking to my mom he convinced me to play Emily. I always credited him with helping me to overcome my shyness by getting me up on a stage and teaching me to act and speak to a crowd. It was soo much fun!!
I didn't always see Jack a lot over the years, but when I did it was like you had just talked to him yesterday. Always loved seeing him perform and every once in awhile watching a movie or a show on TV it was like "hey! there's Jack!" Witty, funny as hell, creative. He loved loved his beautiful wife Margaret and his children. Will miss you.

Because I had told a story in front of an audience about taking my dad’s ashes back to Ireland, Jack accosted me amongst the aisles of the New Rochelle Public Library. He wanted to know more.
He would rue the day.
We met many times after that. Our paths crossed, intertwined, grew mossy, got weed whacked, developed fungi, were sometimes peed on, but were always well met, our paths I mean.
The telephone, a marvelous invention for the youth of yesterday, became our kind of – well- thing.
John Antony, being of that age, was not only a source, but also a sink. He could spout and also sup. Words. Maybe it was the old barman in him. We had many conversations about geography and literature and movies and made plans to do plays that wouldn’t rock the world or change anything because they had all been done before. Maybe one day we said, maybe what’s the point and how are you doing? We found ourselves far more interesting than the crown princes of tinseldenmarkshire.
Jack was so much more than a character, but he didn’t mind being one. I like that. He was a big presence, a lovely man who wanted to know you, and I will miss him, but he is immortal. Look him up. Lucky, lovely guy.

I knew Jack by virtue of the fact that he married Margaret, a dear close friend of my sister, who I shared in loving and always enjoyed whenever our paths might cross. Stories of Jack were always delightful and I’m so sorry for his loss to all friends and especially family. God bless you all.

I became a friend of Jack around 2012-2013 through the Irish American Writers and Artists and Artists Without Walls groups in New York City. I enjoyed his company and his encouragement of my writing. Jack called me before I relocated to Northern California in 2021. We talked or texted a couple of times after that. I greatly appreciated Jack's support. He was a warm, kind, and generous man, and a very talented actor. He conveyed a depth of feeling and true humanity in his roles. My sympathies to Margaret and the family. I will miss him.

Our deepest condolences to the O'Connell Family.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Dear Margaret, and all of the O'Connell family;

I think that everyone who knew Jack feels a great sense of sadness and loss on hearing of his passing. He was truly a "One of a Kind" person who exhibited such passion and enthusiasm in all his adventures. So many people were touched by his kindness and his generosity.
He was particularly proud of his family, Margaret, his children, and of course his grandchildren. You are his greatest legacy.
Jack, whenever I think of you, it will bring a smile to my face and a feeling of joy at having been your friend.
Rest in Peace

We had the honor of knowing Jack for years as the husband of his wife, our dear friend Margaret. He was always a joy to be with, and had a kind word for everyone. Although we saw him sporadically, we always seemed to pick off where we left off; with lots of laughter and love. We will miss him.

Love and Blessings to the family,

Ben and Lisa Smith

Jack had a love for baseball that was infectious. I remember as a kid he told me to read the “Sporting News”. “The Sports Bible” he liked to call it. He told me when I was maybe 12 years old to look out for a young kid named “Darryl Strawberry” when nobody had heard of him yet. I’ll miss those talks over the years. And watching TV or a movie and saying “Hey there’s Jack!” At least we can still have that. Rest in Peace my friend.

Dear Jack, a delightful brother-in-law who always made us laugh. We love you.
Rest in Peace.
Our love to Margaret and all the O'Connells.

I will never forget Jack. He was a wonderful man and an inspiration to us all, especially our daughter who aspires to a life in theater. I hope Margaret will take solace in the many wonderful memories he created. RIP Jack.

Rest in Peace Jack the Pepsi Man. You left me with so many wonderful childhood memories. Always with a camera in hand capturing the wonderful history of Point Lookout and a friend to all. You will be severely missed my friend.

I can’t remember much of my life without Jack in it! We’ve shared the good times!! I’ll miss his smiles and laughter, and his art. He was a good man. Deepest condolences to Margaret and family — we love you guys very much.

I’m so happy to have witnessed the beautiful relationship between my dear, close friend Margaret (Mago), and Jack from the very beginning. What an amazing love and life they shared! A home always bustling with family, many friends, parties, shows, travels, the beach. Let’s keep the connections and memories alive! My visits with them were infrequent, but always filled with talking, laughing, sharing and welcoming. I will miss you Jack and I will try to help your loving Margaret through her loss.
With a sad heart,
Cathy Spica

Jack was so down to Earth. Always had a smile. Fun to be around; especially at birthday and holiday parties. He will be missed by all who knew him and especially his family.

Dear Margaret, Jack was a good friend to my brother Jimmy for over 50 years. Jack was Jimmy’s best and one true devoted friend. Jack helped Jimmy through his recent illnesses and did many kind things for him. Going for walks, visiting Jimmy in the hospitals and at home , cheerful words always - Jack was always there for him. I also enjoyed his reading about the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade. My condolences to you Margaret and your family . May Jack rest in peace. Jimmy and I and my mom will miss him. Yours Truly, Betty McLoughlin

“Death is nothing at all. It does not count. I have only slipped away into the next room. Nothing has happened.
Everything remains exactly as it was. I am I, and you are you, and the old life that we lived so fondly together is untouched, unchanged. Whatever we were to each other, that we are still. Call me by the old familiar name. Speak of me in the easy way which you always used. Put no difference into your tone. Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes that we enjoyed together. Play, smile, think of me, pray for me. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was. Let it be spoken without an effort, without the ghost of a shadow upon it. Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was. There is absolute and unbroken continuity. What is this death but a negligible accident? Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I am but waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just round the corner. All is well.“

-Henry Holland, (1847-1918) Regius Professor of Divinity at the University of Oxford

Dear Margaret
Jack was our big brother from another mother. Will always love him and you!

Oh Jack, you can't get away from us that easily. You will be with us always.
But we will miss Jack's presence here so much, for his friendship, his humor, his wisdom. We have known Jack for almost 50 years. From the early days of scene study with Bill Hickey, to the plays that we all put on in Point Lookout, to seeing him clear the garden path for Meryl Streep in Doubt and serve cocktails to the Madmen, to the visits back and forth, to the wonderful letters he wrote just like his 650 performances, there's never been another guy like him.
We love him a lot! and we miss him.

Jack will be missed. His smile always put a smile on our faces. We were blessed to have shared some of our time with him. He will not be forgotten.

Dad, you always taught us to make the small people feel big. You will always be larger than life. I miss you so much.

Condolences to Margaret and the O’Connell family. So sorry for your loss.

Jack, Is a very special person, anyone who knew him knows that, I met Jack in the early 70's he was practicing boxing at the at the park in PT Lookout, so I started to watch him I was 10 or 11 years old, he asked me if he could beat me up, I told him he could try! we became best of friends from that day on, I would see him everywhere, I was with my mother in the car, and we saw him riding his bicycle on the parkway, I told my mother that's my friend, she told me to stay away from him he looks nuts! (big giant guy) I did not listen to her, I would wait for him every day, he was the best friend a little kid could ever have!! we stayed friends forever, Jack agreed to have a picture party at my house a few years ago, all his PT Lookout friends were there, it was one of the greatest party's we ever had, we had talks of another picture party this coming summer, Jack is a great guy and will be truly missed by all, Goodbye my buddy.......

I am so sorry for your loss. Wishing you and your family strength and peace during this difficult time. It’s been a long time, but please know you’re in my thoughts.

We had more to do Jack. So much more to do. Finding you was a gift we are so grateful for. We will treasure the memories forever. Watch over us. See you on the beach. Love you so much.