Birth date: Jul 2, 1938 Death date: Jun 7, 2021
John McDonnell, the University of Arkansas legendary men’s cross country and track and field coach passed away Monday, June 7, 2021 at the age of 82. He was born July 2, 1938 in Crossmolina, Ireland to Michael McDonnell and Bridge Read Obituary
I lived next door to them in the early 70's. John taught me how to drive and Ellen encouraged me to lose weight (200+ pounds) and taught me how to sew. They were awesome folks back then and every time I saw them after that. I was honored to have known them.
Jill Forrester Fletcher.
John was a teammate at USL from 1965-1969.
John was some 10 years older than most of us on the track team. To me he provided inspiration to all of us by effort. I was a high jumper and just being proximal to his training regimen and competitive grit influenced me and others to work harder and compete harder. Our success was due in part to John’s influence.
I pray for the family and they’re loss.
Our deepest Condolences to the family and friends of John. Our mother Ann was a cousin of John and sadly passed away last April. She always spoke very fondly of John and looked forward to his visits to see her mother Annie Gallagher (Nancy), a first cousin of John. Our prayers are with the McDonnell family at this sad time. May he Rest in Peace
Kevin Regan, Yvonne Francis, Annette Ferguson Mayo, Ireland
Ellen, Heather, and Sean,
I am deeply saddened by the passing of John. Although I haven’t seen you all in about 36 years, I had the amazing opportunity to spend time with you. I met Heather when I was 9 or 10. We lived on the same street (Betty Jo Drive/next to Maple Manor). I spent time in your home there and often visited the newly built house as well. (This was in the early to mid 80’s.) I also remember the toasted peanut butter sandwiches. I never, ever forgot the time I shared with your family. Thank you for being instrumental in my growth as a young child. Your generosity and time impacted me beyond measure. It made such a difference in my life. The memories of your kindness helps me shape and educate young minds today.
Forever grateful,
Danielle Singleton
Deepest condolences to Ellen, Heather & Sean. It was a privilege to be part of John's great teams. He had a genuine interest in how we all developed as individuals in life and also taught us the value of hard work and self believe. We all feel really sad on his passing but are comfort that he is now safe in the arms of God.
May he now Rest in Peace
Dave Taylor , Dublin , Ireland .
Coach McDonnell was truly an inspiration and mentor to so many athletes in his career. He will definitely be missed by me. I had the wonderful opportunity to be coached by him and to run with him at Lafayette High School before he went up to Fayetteville to coach at the collegiate level and he was like a father to all of the distance runners there. God bless you Coach!
Cecil & Maeve Mcdonnell Belmullet Co. Mayo Ireland.
It is with great sadness we heard of the death of our cousin John Mcdonnell we offer our deepest condolences to his wife Ellen his daughter Heather son Sean his brother Michael and sisters Margaret ,Philomena and Mary. We have great memories of his many visits to my mother Annie Horan on his frequent trips to Ireland. John was a wonderful caring and true gentleman may his gentle soul rest in peace.
Coach John was one of the most humble and sincere people I have ever known. He was the epitome of integrity and grace. Bob and I were privileged to call him and his wonderful family friends. Godspeed, Coach.
Sincere Sympathy to Ellen, Heather, Sean and your extended family, relatives, friends, University of Arkansas colleagues and Razorback athletes .. RIP John.
TOM MOLONEY & Family, Tipperary, Ireland
