William Henry O'Donnell was born in Naugatuck, Connecticut, on December 17, 1933 to May and Henry O'Donnell. His parents raised William, fondly referred to as Bill, and his beloved older sister Irene in the mill town in western Connecticut. His father worked for the United States Rubber Company. Bill also worked there during his summer vacations and quickly gained a deep respect for hard work.

Bill left Naugatuck after graduating from high school to attend Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, where he was enrolled in ROTC. After graduating from Brown, Bill began his career in the United States Navy, which introduced him to the joy of traveling the world.

As a civilian, Bill continued his passion for traveling and spent a significant time in Europe where he learned about art, music, food, culture and language.  His experience in Europe enhanced his life and provided content as he entertained his friends and family for years with countless stories and fond recollections of his travels.

Bill eventually returned to New England and became a highly regarded high school English teacher at the prestigious Groton School in Groton, Massachusetts.  His distinguished reputation followed him for years through accolades and reunions honoring him, and recently culminated with Bill being voted one of the best teachers in Groton School history.

Bill met his loving partner in life, Jorge Russell and they would eventually marry. They lived in wonderful areas of Massachusetts including Salem, Marblehead and Boston. While in Marblehead, Bill loved working in a fine gifts store that he and Jorge owned.

Bill had a true knack for recognizing fine art, literature and classical music.  He loved attending the Boston Symphony Orchestra, was an avid reader and a very talented writer who always displayed marvelous wit within his pieces.  Bill was well versed in current events and had a great interest in politics.  He had a phenomenal memory and a wonderful sense of humor, making him a joy to be around.

Bill will be sorely missed by his niece Irene, his nephew John, and his great-niece and -nephew Isabel and Owen.  They shared so many wonderful visits with Uncle Bill in both New York City and Boston and will cherish those memories forever.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday November 4, from 4:00 to 8:00 pm in The Robert J. Lawler & Crosby Funeral Home, 1803 Centre St. West Roxbury. Burial Friday November 5, in The Massachusetts National Cemetery at 10:30 am. Relatives and friends are invited to attend.