Richard O'Connell

Richard O'Connell, age 82, of Holly Springs, North Carolina formerly of Pittsburgh PA. passed away on Monday, November 28, 2022 peacefully, comfortably while surrounded by the love of his family. He was the son of the late Patrick and Dorothy (Griffin) O'Connell.

Richard was the beloved husband and best friend of Rhonda O'Connell, proud father of Rick (Margaret), Mark (Kathy), Brad (Val), step-father to Shannon O’Malley (Greg) Slidelinger, the late Brian Joubert, Kelly (Gary) Dickens and Russell (April) Deily. Grandpa to Ricky, Albert, Kara, Ryan, Elise, Ian, Marlena, Anna, Alana, Cody, Cole, Sara and Maggie. Dear brother of Raymond (Rosemary), Roseanne (Harry) Price, Roberta (David) Dinneen, Ronald (Kathlene), Regina (Gary) Garda, Russell, Ralph and the late Ruth Benjamin, late Robert O'Connell, late Regis and (Linda) O'Connell, late Rita (John) Milroth

He is preceded in death by his late wife Bernadette O’Connell.

Richard, was a graduate of Schenley High School in Pittsburgh. He continued his education at the Pittsburgh Art Institute. He was known as a exceptional artist. He created visual poetry with his scratchboard art that won him awards. This technique is used by commercial artists and illustrators to make drawings that can easily be reproduced and that closely resemble either wood engravings or wood cuts. He was a versatile visual artist using oil, charcoal and other mediums, his artworks featured vibrant colors and images. He created drawings for the American Greeting Card Company.

Richard was honorably discharged from the United States Army. He retired after 37 years in the marketing department from the Hoover Corporation. He loved all Pittsburgh sports, and was a die-hard Pittsburgh Steeler and Penguin fan. He will be remembered for his storytelling and making people laugh.

Friends are invited to the H.P. Brandt Funeral Home 1032 Perry Hwy Pittsburgh PA 15237 for a Celebration of Life on December 10, 2022 from 10AM to 11:30AM. At 11:30AM a service will be conducted by Pastor George Palombo. The family would like to invite everyone to Rico’s immediately following the service.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.brandtfuneralhome.com for the O'Connell family.