James P. McDonnell

James P. McDonnell, 88, of Drums, passed away peacefully Saturday morning at Providence Place Retirement Community, Drums, with his family by his side.

Born in Philadelphia, on August 5, 1927, he was the son of the late James Patrick and Margaret (Brady) McDonnell, and had spent the last 12 years in Drums after moving from Bensalem, PA.

James was a US Merchant Marine Veteran and a member of Good Shepherd RC Church, Drums.  He was an owner of Bernstein’s Office Machines and Supplies and was head of their service department.  After retirement he was employed as a crossing guard for the Bensalem School District.  James will be remembered for his big heart, his love and concern for his family and his structure and punctuality.

He was preceded in death, in addition to his parents, by his wife, the former Mary Elizabeth Behlert who passed away January 17, 2011; siblings Smitty O’Brien; Billy, Redsy and Eddie McDonnell.

Surviving are his daughter Colleen Farley and her husband David, Drums; two granddaughters Sarah Farley and her partner Brandon Seely, Beaver Meadows; Stephanie Miller and her husband Brian, Beaver Meadows; two great-grandchildren Brian Jr. and Emma Miller.

His funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:30 am from Harman Funeral Home & Crematory (East), 669 W. Butler Dr., Drums, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am in Good Shepherd RC Church, 87 S Hunter Hwy, Drums.  Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Drums.  Friend are invited to call at the funeral home Tuesday evening from 6 to 8pm. 

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 57 N. Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702 or online at www.alz.org.  Online condolences may be entered and more information is available at www.harmanfuneral.com. 

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