Marblehead

Thomas W. McDonnell, age 87, husband of the late Arline P. (Flynn) McDonnell, died Tuesday morning, February 24, 2015 at Seacoast Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Gloucester. Born in Beverly, he was the son of the late Thomas J. and Louise (Carbrey) McDonnell. He attended elementary school in Beverly and was a 1947 graduate of St. John's Prep where he was a varsity member of their State Championship Basketball Team, known to his peers as "Whitey" McDonnell. Following his graduation from the Prep, he attended Holy Cross. Mr. McDonnell owned and operated Shore Line Travel Service in Lynn until his retirement.

Thom was a world traveler who was known for his engaging personality and his generosity to all. An avid sailor in the 210 fleet, he was a past member of the Boston Yacht Club, Corinthian Yacht Club, Salem Country Club, New York Athletic Club, and the Largo Mar Beach Club in Fort Lauderdale, FL. He was a parishioner at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church in Marblehead.

Surviving him are his children, Susanne G. Macdonald of Beverly Farms, Dale G. Dick and her husband, Edward, of Ipswich, Alexander L. Grant of Danvers, Robin E. Robertson of Salem, Flynn T. McDonnell and his wife, Mimi, of Wenham, and his sister Ruth "Jody" Games of Exeter, NH. Mr. McDonnell was blessed with 14 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

His Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday February 28, 2015 at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, 85 Atlantic Ave, Marblehead at 10:00 a.m. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Burial will be held privately. At the request of the family there are no visiting hours. Arrangements are under the direction of the Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal St., Salem. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made in his name to St. John's Preparatory School, 72 Spring Street, Danvers, MA 01923. For additional information or online guest book please call 781 631 8885 or visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com.