Obituary of Joseph G. McDonnell

Joseph McDonnell (Joe) of Manahawkin, Stafford NJ, died on Sunday September 18, 2022, at Southern Ocean Medical Center with his family by his side after complications of cancer treatment. Joe is predeceased by his parents, Francis James & Ann Marie (Lynch) McDonnell and his brother Michael Daniel McDonnell. Surviving is his beloved girlfriend Cindy Walsh remaining by his side through thick and thin for over 35 years, brothers Francis (Frank) and Daniel (Danny) and sister Denise Molony, Niece’s Brittani, Cassandra, Kaitlyn and Sissy, and Nephews Kyle, Dylan, Eddie, Danny and PJ, brother-in-law Bill Molony and sister-in-law Jane (Coon) McDonnell and Karen (Kilroy) McDonnell. Joe was surrounded by a huge extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends. Joe was born in Bronx NY, raised in Jackson NJ before settling down in Manahawkin, Stafford Township. Joe was a Master Carpenter by Trade working for various construction contractors throughout his career applying his experienced skills building houses, remodeling, and special projects. Joe enjoyed working on cars, repairing equipment, fishing, and camping. When he was committed to a project or repair whether it be at work, family, or a friend’s house, he was committed to finish the job no matter how tough it was. Joe’s presence, laugh and smile lit up the room with kindhearted moments or jokes that would leave you laughing all night. Joe enjoyed playing Jenga with his nieces and nephew who called him “Jenga Joe” because of his keen eye and clever carpenter skills to win the game. He enjoyed being around his pets and most of all enjoyed being around his family and good friends especially by the campfire. Joe was compassionate in life never asking for anything but always asking what he can do for you. Joe was a fighter in everything he did in life, even when he was injured at times, he fought his way through to heal and move on to the next project. But his biggest battle he fought was his last moments of life, knowing he was surrounded by his loving family, he decided he can now rest and join Mom, Dad, and Mike in Heaven. He will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. We will be having a Celebration of his Life on his 55th Birthday October 9, 2022, at the Moose Club 120 Rt 72 East Manahawkin NJ 08050 at 12:00pm. Please join us to share memories, laugh, cry, and toast his birthday.