Wilmer P. O'Connell

Wilmer P. O'Connell known to friends and family as Bill, passed away on March 7, 2026 in New Smyrna Beach, FL at the age of 91.

Bill was born in 1934 in Rochester, NY to Raymond and Elsie O'Connell. After graduating from Aquinas High School, Bill continued his education at St. John Fisher College and the University of Rochester, where he received his master's in business administration. He then became an employee of the Rochester City School District and was the director of transportation until his retirement.

Bill married the love of his life, Mary Lou McFall, in 1957. They spent 60 wonderful years together until her passing in 2017. Since 1972, Bill and Mary Lou spent many summers in the Adirondacks. They spent their days boating across Big Moose Lake or golfing at the Thendara Golf Club, where Bill was president for several years.

Music was Bill's advocation. He was the brass instructor for the Mighty Saint Joe's drum and bugle corps, out of Batavia in the 1960's. His dedication to his playing led to him being inducted into the bugler's Hall of Fame in Batavia, NY in 2024. He also performed in musicals at community theaters in both Rochester and New Smyrna Beach; This wonderful Irish Tenor was a member of the choir at Our Lady Star of the Sea church in New Smyrna Beach for many years.

In addition to his wife Mary Lou, Bill is predeceased by his parents, Raymond and Elsie; brothers, Edward and Raymond (Elfriede); and sister, Elsie (Al Ranzenbach). He is survived by his nieces and nephews, Ellie Guck, Dan, Bill (Mary), Ray (Debbie), Tom (Tammy) O'Connell, Alice (Tom) Osborn, Ed Ranzenbach, Marilyn Phillips (John Briody), Al (Karen) Ranzenbach.

Family will receive friends on Friday, April 10, 2026 from 4-7pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10am on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at St. Theodore's Church - 168 Spencerport Rd.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Bill's honor to: The Humane Society OR The Hubbard House - PO Box 4909 Jacksonville FL, 32201.