Condolences to Mary and the entire O’Donnell family. I have nothing but fond memories of time spent with your dad, from Redskins games at Fed Ex, to the Rod and Reel cancer gala, to the invites to dinner at his home. The first time I met him was when you and him were going to Reagan National airport to pick your mom up after a family visit, and asked me if I wanted to go, as he was taking his cruiser, and I jumped at that chance to ride in a deputy chief’s police cruiser as a guest and not a prisoner. I was instantly interested in law enforcement and all the radio traffic calls. At that time I wanted to learn more about a future career in law enforcement and Chief O’ Donnell encouraged it with recruiting paperwork for MPD and later Dept. of Juvenile justice. Always a good time being around your dad, even during the move of his belongings from Brunswick back to Owings. I’ve thought of him a lot over these last few years and wanted to stop in Glenarden city hall to talk him. So much respect for him and I will visit him at Arlington cemetery when I visit my mother’s grave.

“Murph” as dad would so fondly call you. Dad would look forward to the nights you would be working. He really liked you too. I do miss his quick wit and famous one-liners. I worked my first game last night and had a few teary eyed moments thinking about him. Dad did enjoy all the locker room banter at the rink and joking around with all the officials. Thank you for your kind words Brian! I know dad would appreciate it too.
Mary Healey ❤

Wes, Dad did have a twinkle in his eye! I worked my first game without him last night and I certainly had a few teary-eyed moments. Thank goodness for masks right now.
I want to thank you for all your kind words and the recording you made for Connor and Shelby! That was really really special. ❤ Dad was definitely smiling down on all of us. He would have loved that recording! Thank you for being a friend to all of us.
Mary Healey ❤

Sally thank you! One thing I always respected about my dad was his encouragement for women to do any job. I remember mentioning to him that I’d like to see my husband run for mayor. He looked at me with a smile and said “why not you? Why don’t you run.” It really resonated with me. 15 years ago he help get me into a male dominated NHL. He was met with a lot of resistance trying to get me on the crew because I was a woman, and I felt bad. He told me ” it’s time to change it up.” He was ahead of his time in his way of thinking. He believed women added value to his department.
Mary Healey ❤

Thank you Ken! He was a friend and mentor to me too. I was proud to call him my dad. He was the best! He certainly loved his family and he loved being a police officer. I miss him terribly. He is going to make one hell of an angel. ❤

Mary Healey ❤

Anthony, my dad was happy at Glenarden. The Chief always had something to say. I miss some of his funny one liners. I think about him everyday. He is with me as I am pretty sure he is looking down on Glenarden on all the officers and staff. Keep up the good work!

Mary Healey ❤

Hi Dave. I may have heard a story or two about these “capers”. I’d love to hear a few more. Dad really cared about all the officers he worked with and loved his job.
Mary Healey ❤

I remember dad talking about Charlie Bacon! I loved hearing all the stories. My dad truly loved his job.

Mary Healey

Thank you Jim! My dad loved the MPD and all the men and women he worked with.
Mary Healey ❤

My deepest condolences to the O’Donnell family. Chief O’Donnell was an outstanding mentor, dedicated servant, and compassionate friend. I first met the Chief fourteen years ago when I was looking to hire a Police Chief for the City of Glenarden. Chief O’Donnell came highly recommended. Once hired, I knew he was the right man for the job. I admired his commitment and dedication to law enforcement and the City of Glenarden, never allowing personalities or problems to deter him from doing his duty with integrity and honesty. He was a constant source of encouragement and support throughout my mayorship. He also became a kind and caring friend to my family. Though I had lost touch with the Chief over the years, I knew if I needed him for anything, he would spring to action at a moment’s notice. I am greatly honored and blessed to have known him. Our time working together and the friendship we developed will serve as fond memories. May the Lord bring you peace and comfort in knowing his invaluable impact on the many lives he touched. Gail Parker Carter, former Mayor of the City of Glenarden.