John William Donnell, II

John William Donnell, II, passed away Sunday, April 12, 2026.

John was born March 11, 1949, in Guilford County to the late John William Donnell and Maudie Oakes Donnell.  He was a Senior Project Director with AC Corporation, where he retired from after 30 years.  John also served in the US Army National Guard and spent eighteen years as a volunteer firefighter for McLeansville Fire Department.  He loved coaching his children’s youth soccer and baseball teams and was an avid fisherman who always said, “Any day fishing was a good day.”

John truly cherished all the many friendships that he made throughout the years. He was especially thankful for the friendships he made while he was working that continued after his retirement.  John will be remembered as a cherished and adored husband, a caring and supportive father, and a truly loving and proud PawPaw. He was a man who always put his family first, and he will be greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Judy Register.

John is survived by his wife of 55 years, Lillie “Sue” Donnell; daughter, Anitra Donnell Satterfield (Shane); son, Derrick Donnell (Tabitha); grandson, Ace Satterfield; sister, Brenda Whitesell; and many nieces and nephews who he was very proud of.

Following his wishes, the family will have a private service to celebrate his life. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to McLeansville Fire Department, 5326 Frieden Church Road, McLeansville, NC 27301, or to Stokesdale Fire Department, 8401 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale NC 27357.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John William Donnell, II, please visit our floral store.