Annette O'Donnell

Annette O’Donnell of Harrison, NJ, formerly of Montclair, passed away shortly after her 73rd birthday.  Born in Broxburn, West Lothian, Scotland, Annette came to the United States as a child. She lived for a short time in Bloomfield before moving to Harrison.

Private funeral services are under the direction of the Mulligan Funeral Home, 331 Cleveland Avenue Harrison, NJ 07029.   

Annette attended St Cecilia’s High School and Rutgers University, where she studied English Literature and Political Science.

Annette supported several women’s and civil rights causes, she always fought for the underdog.  She worked at many non-profit organizations throughout her career: Lawyers’ Committee for Human Rights, American Civil Liberties Union, PBS, and Planned Parenthood.

Annette had many passions.  She was a fantastic baker and cook. She had an amazing green thumb, loved all flowers and organic gardening. Annette was a brilliant writer; when she described her travels, you would feel that you were right there with her, in the moment. She was in the midst of documenting the countless concerts she attended of the band NRBQ (New Rhythm and Blues Quartet), dating back to 1979. She loved to read any book she could get her hands on, from cookbooks to poetry. She loved animals and donated to the ASPCA regularly.   

Annette’s greatest joy was her daughter, Hanne.  She inspired Hanne to become the biggest fan of her own favorite music band NRBQ. They travelled from coast to coast see them.

Annette was predeceased by her parents, James Charles and Anne (née Keaveney) O’Donnell and her sister, Elaine O’Donnell.  She is survived by her loving daughter Hanne O’Donnell and her devoted brother James O’Donnell.

There will be a memorial service for Annette in the near future.   

Donations in Annette’s memory to Hanne’s school programs (spectrum360.org and Yai.org), the ASPCA, or a favorite charity would be most appreciated.

If you would like to send a condolence message to her family, please visit www.mulliganfh.com.

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