It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Mr. Edward McDonnell on Thursday, May 22, 2025, in Deerfield Beach, Florida.
Mr. McDonnell’s devotion to Oratory Prep spanned nearly seventy years. He arrived at OP in 1956 as a student and proudly graduated with the Class of 1960. A standout leader on the basketball court wearing the number 12, Ed played all four years and served as Co-Captain during his senior season. He was also a key contributor to two undefeated teams in 1958–1959 and 1959–1960. A classmate and friend, Bill Beute ‘60, reflected “Ed was the ultimate sportsman in every aspect of life and on the court. He never forgot what Oratory and Father Bain did for him. He made sure that he gave back to Oratory in everything he did.”
In 1969, Ed returned to Oratory as a teacher, beginning a long and impactful career at 1 Beverly Place. He was best known for his role as Varsity Basketball Coach from 1969 to 1980, and also served as Athletic Director and, later, as the school’s first Director of Development.
Mr. McDonnell’s influence on the Oratory Prep community is immeasurable. Generations of students were shaped by his leadership, mentorship, and dedication—a legacy evident in the many heartfelt memories shared by alumni. Steven Diaz ’71, reflecting on his time playing under Coach McDonnell, stated, "I had the true pleasure of meeting Coach Ed McDonnell back in 1968 when he visited St. James High School in Newark. He suggested that because St. James was closing, the school should combine its basketball team with Oratory’s with the hopes of developing one strong and successful winning team. As the center for St. James, I took him up on that offer and never imagined how much my life would be changed as a result. Coach Ed McDonnell was truly a great coach and a good man. I felt he took a special interest in me. He identified me as an inner city kid who had potential. And because of this, he gave me the opportunity to excel athletically, academically, and personally. I knew he was always there for me and my team members. Coach McDonnell really changed my life in so many ways. I will miss him tremendously. Coach impacted my life more than he could ever have imagined."
John Curran ’75, also a former Oratory basketball player, shared a similar sentiment: “I am so grateful for Oratory, and particularly the time spent playing for Ed McDonnell. Much of my success in life is due to the fundamentals I was taught at Oratory, and for me, Ed McDonnell was the biggest part of that.”
Ed McDonnell truly embodied the spirit of Oratory Prep and leaves behind a legacy that will endure for generations. May his memory live on in the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege to know him.
In the name of St. Philip Neri, our community prays for the repose of the soul of Mr. Edward K. McDonnell, and that Oratory may continue to be blessed by his spirit. Until we meet again, may God hold him in the palm of His hand.
This article appeared in the June 2025 issue of Fidelitas: The Alumni Newsletter of Oratory Prep. To return to the full issue, visit www.oratoryprep.org/fidelitas.