Peter E. O'Connell, age 80, long time resident of Jamestown, passed away on Wednesday, January 3rd 2024, in a valiant victory over cancer. He is survived by his wife, Debra O'Connell, children Lynn (Jim), Cheryl (Damian), Jason, Christina (Don), grandchildren, great-grandchildren, brother Joseph, and sister Ann. He is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Genevieve O'Connell and his brother Edward. For 37 years, Peter exemplified servant leadership throughout his career in property management at Westminster Company. The prestigious Life Improvement Award, given yearly to the employee who most improves the lives of Westminster Company's residents, was renamed the Peter E. O'Connell Life Improvement Award upon his retirement as Executive Vice President in 2016, honoring the man who thoroughly lived out this desire to help the downtrodden and to lift up the weary. Known for being dependable and willing, Peter served selflessly at LIFE Community Church during retirement. Giving his support in the children's playground, his smile as a greeter, and even his wisdom in parking lot improvements filled him and others with much joy. Peter deeply loved and cared for his wife Debra, and his love and pride for all his children, grands included, was evidenced in the many stories he shared. Friends and family meant everything to him. However, the greatest love he discovered in his life was his Savior and Friend, the Lord Jesus. In the last year of his life, Peter wrote many letters sharing the Truth of the Bible with his loved ones. The service to celebrate Peter's life will be held at 11:30a on February 23rd at LIFE Community Church, 4900 W. Wendover Ave., Jamestown, North Carolina. The family will receive friends at LIFE Community Church from 10:30a-11:15a. In true Peter fashion, family encourages colorful attire. A friend's and family meal will follow the service. Peter's heart gravitated toward lifting up those who were down emotionally and financially. Therefore, in lieu of flowers, donations to the Benevolence Fund at LIFE Community Church will most honor the man we have cherished.