Francis J. "Frank" Donnelly

Francis J. “Frank” Donnelly, age 85, of Havertown, PA, formerly of Upper Darby, PA, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2022 surrounded by his family. Born in Philadelphia, PA, Frank was the son of the late William J. and Mary J. Donnelly (née Devlin).

Frank was a proud class of 1955 graduate of West Catholic Boys High School in Philadelphia, PA. He started out his professional career as a mechanic. This is where his love and appreciation for cars began. He spent 15 years as a mechanic working at both Terminal and Crest Chevrolet.

Frank met the love of his life, Ann, at a local Irish dance. They went on to marry and spent the next 58 years building a beautiful life together.

In 1970, Frank graduated from the Pennsylvania State Police Academy and began his career as an Upper Darby Police Officer. During his tenure at UDPD, Frank helped countless fellow neighbors and community members while working side by side with his dear partner, Joe DiFrancesco. He served with the Upper Darby Police Department for over 25 years. After he retired, a favorite pastime of Frank’s was to tell stories of his days driving the police wagon.

For over 40 years, Frank proudly worked part time at The Donohue Funeral Homes. A true testament to the legacy that Frank leaves behind, his wife Ann, and three sons all spent many years working together at the funeral home, making memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Frank was affectionately known as the “Mayor of Highland Park” due to his outgoing personality and willingness to always help others. Frank was a man of strong faith and was proud member of St. Laurence Parish for over 80 years.

Frank enjoyed nothing more than socializing with others at some of his favorite local establishments. Frank was extremely proud of his Irish heritage. He loved going on fishing trips with friends, and vacationing in Sea Isle City, NJ with his children and grandchildren.

Frank was a kind, loyal, and dedicated husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend that will be missed immensely.

Frank is survived by his beloved wife, Ann Donnelly (née McGee), his loving children Dennis F. Donnelly (Ann), Francis J. “Duke” Donnelly (Eileen), Teresa A. Wimmer (Scott) and William J. Donnelly (Kait). His 17 grandchildren: Erin, Colin,  Kevin,  Brynn, Patrick, Katelyn, Lauren, Megan, Brendan, Sara, Ryan, Emma, Nora, Sean, Kylie, Jack, and Declan. He was predeceased by his brother, Rev. William P. Donnelly.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing 6:00- 8:00 PM Thursday, October 13, 2022  and 9:30-10:30 AM Friday, October 14, 2022 at The Donohue Funeral Home, 8401 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA (610) 449-0300 and to his Funeral Mass 11:00 AM at Annunciation BVM Church, 401 Brookline Blvd., Havertown, PA. Interment SS Peter and Paul Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Frank’s memory to the Upper Darby Township Police Department, 7236 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA 19082 Attn: Police Relief Association or to St. Laurence Church Capital Campaign, 8245 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA 19082, would be appreciated.