Arthur E. O'Donnell

Out of the gate on July 27, 1937, in Everett, Massachusetts, Arthur E. O’Donnell "Artie" began his remarkable run alongside his parents Alice and William, later welcoming his twin sisters Alice and Anne. At the first turn, he grew up playing basketball and baseball in the local youth leagues. He graduated from Medford High School and began his lifelong love affair with Boston’s sports teams. Settling into his stride, Artie graduated from Bentley College, became a Certified Public Accountant, and proudly served his country as a reservist in the US Army for seven years where he was stationed in Fort Leavenworth, KS. He married Catherine (O’Keefe) O’Donnell, worked as an accountant and moved to Rhode Island while watching his family grow. At the half-mile marker, he built a life defined by good friends, good times and a lot of laughs. He began working as a department manager in the home improvement industry at places like Brewster's and Somerville Lumber. He later ventured into establishing his own businesses while enjoying softball on the weekends with his friends, competition and camaraderie went hand in hand. One of Artie’s greatest passions was horse racing. He even owned a racehorse with one of his friends named Halfback Option. Arthur traveled the country to see top tier sporting events like horse racing and made yearly pilgrimages to Las Vegas where, I am sure, they still talk about him to this day. Making the far turn, he found his greatest joy in time with his grandchildren. "Grampy” never missed a game, recital, competition or milestone event. He enjoyed dinners with friends and family where he would share stories that grew better with every retelling. Down the stretch, he remained fiercely devoted to those he loved. Always willing to help with time, offer advice or simply just a meal to touch base. Artie was a special kind of person who remembered everyone, and welcomed every opportunity to spend time with old and new friends alike. Crossing the finish line on April 30, 2026, Artie leaves behind his children William O'Donnell of Warwick, RI, Kimberley Fieser-O'Donnell of Ashburn, VA, Kevin O'Donnell of Warwick, RI and Kristen Sheehan of Warwick, RI, his grandchildren Alexander, Nicholas, Amelie, Maxwell, Samantha and Sean, and his sister Anne Reilly of Naples, FL. Though his race has ended, the memories he leaves behind will continue to bring countless smiles to his family and friends. Everyone who knew him has great Artie stories, and they will continue to tell them with love, laughter, and remembrance of a life well lived. Friends and family of Arthur are invited to celebrate his life on Saturday, June 20th, from 12-3 at the Greenwood Inn in Warwick, RI. Bring your stories, your laughter, and your love. We are all better for having shared our lives with him.