Hugh MacDonnell passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, November 20, 2023. Although Hugh’s diagnosis and passing are upsetting for all, his loved ones wish for Hugh to be remembered for his kindness, generosity, quick wit, and perseverance. If you met Hugh, you would not be able to forget him; his positive attitude was palpable.
Hugh was born in 1955 and grew up in Newton, Massachusetts. His parents were natives of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia and the family often made frequent summer vacations there. As an adult Hugh had a variety of careers. He worked for many years for the Lappen family and for Rush Auto. He also worked for Travelers Insurance as an auditor. Most recently he found his true calling as a part-owner of two convenience stores in Quincy: Adams Variety and The Quincy Market. Hugh’s business partners were family to him; he felt so fortunate to have had these people in his life the past 7 years.
Hugh loved playing golf, watching football, reading, and listening to music. Most of all he loved great conversation with loved ones and acquaintances. Hugh had the unique ability to befriend all types of people.
Hugh leaves behind his wife and best friend of 42 years, Marian (Abbate), his children Jameson and his wife Stacey of Las Cruces, New Mexico, his daughter Marisa, her husband Brian, and his dear grandchildren Samuel and Cecilia of Montclair, New Jersey. He also leaves his sisters Paula (John), Jean (Stephen), Laura (Chris) and his brother, John. He has a number of in-laws, nieces, and nephews, all of whom were special to him. Hugh was preceded in death by his parents Hugh and Emma MacDonnell, his sister Maggie Nunes, and his niece Erica Ames.
Hugh loved the holiday season, making the timing of his passing bittersweet. Upon his passing, Hugh wished for donations to be made to First Tee, a youth development organization with the mission of instilling life-enhancing values through the game of golf. For anyone who knew Hugh, this request was exceptionally well-fitting. His family also wants to extend their gratitude to Mass General Hospital, where Hugh received treatment, and Old Colony Hospice, which served as a great source of support and comfort for Hugh and Marian these last few months.
A Celebration of Life Mass will be held at St. Dennis Church in Westwood on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at 10:00am. Donations can be made to First Tee at PO Box 3055, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32004 or to Old Colony Hospice at 321 Manley Street West Bridgewater, MA 02379.