Barbara Jean O'Connell

Barbara Jean O’Connell (née Connor), 91, of Perry Hall, MD, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, days short of her 92nd birthday. Born in Washington, D.C., Barbara was the cherished daughter of the late John Joseph Connor and Agnes Etoyle (Tennyson) Connor.

Barbara was the loving wife of the late John Thomas O’Connell. Their love story began at a USO dance in Washington, D.C., where they met on a Friday night and danced their way into a lifetime together. They married on September 12, 1953, at Holy Comforter Catholic Church, and were blessed with four beloved children: Catherine O’Connell SantaCroce and her husband Robert SantaCroce, Stephen O’Connell and his wife Jean O’Connell, Mary Beth O’Connell, and Timothy O’Connell and his wife Jennifer O’Connell.

Barbara was a devoted Catholic, and her faith guided her throughout her life. She grew up in Southeast D.C., attended Holy Comforter for elementary school, and graduated from St. Cecilia Catholic High School. In her earlier years, she worked as a secretary for the Supreme Court before dedicating herself fully to her family as a homemaker, where she poured her love, energy, and nurturing spirit into creating a warm and happy home.

Barbara was the proud grandmother of Nicholas SantaCroce, Adriane SantaCroce and husband Jason Bouchelle, Ryan O’Connell and wife Laura Corrigan, Kelly Barr and husband Chris Barr, Terry Mitchell Jr., and Leanna Garfield. She was also the adored great-grandmother of Liam O’Connell. Her family was truly her entire world, and her greatest joy came from simply being surrounded by those she loved.

Known for her infectious laughter, generous heart, and deep well of love, Barbara was a true inspiration to everyone blessed to know her. Her home was a place of fun, music, and memories. She loved Motown, the beach (especially family trips to Ocean City and Fort Myers, Florida) and hosting festive pool parties… complete with her famous Jello molds. She was never above substituting a balanced mid-day meal in favor of ice cream or cake— known affectionately to all as “Nana Lunch.”

Barbara also shared her life with several beloved dogs throughout the years: Phoebe, Mitzi, Penny, and Angel — each a loyal and cherished companion.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Gilchrist Hospice Care who provided tremendous support to our family.

An online guestbook is available at mccomasfuneralhome.com, where family and friends are invited to share memories, condolences, and messages of love.

Barbara Jean O’Connell was a beacon of love and light, and though she is no longer with us, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she touched. She will be deeply missed.

The family will be having a Memorial Mass and Celebration at a future date to be determined.