Fay O’Connell, a cherished matriarch and community figure, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, at the age of 90. Surrounded by family at Pinnacle Health & Rehab, she had been receiving compassionate care throughout her battle with Parkinson’s disease. Her life, marked by family devotion and friendships, left a lasting impact on those who knew her.
Early Life and Family
Born on March 20, 1935, in Springvale, Maine, Fay was the daughter of Paul and Evelina Otis. Growing up in Sanford, she attended local schools where she engaged in sports and cheering, graduating high school in 1953. Fay fostered close relationships within her family, often playing lively games of Michigan Rummy with her cousin, Betty Rankin. These traditions continued as she raised her own family.
On September 19, 1953, Fay married musician Fred O’Connell and devoted herself to being a stay-at-home mother, raising their four children at their home on Middle Street. Once her children reached their teenage years, she transitioned into a career as an insurance agent for John Hancock, where she not only gained professional experience but also formed lasting friendships. Fay later worked in advertising at The Sanford News and served as a secretary at Sanford Adult Education in the evenings, showcasing her dedication to both family and career.
Community Engagement and Lasting Friendships
A committed member of St. Ignatius Church, and later Holy Family Church after her conversion to Catholicism, Fay was known for her strong faith. She also belonged to a unique circle of friends known as The Thursday Night Girls. This group, consisting of her classmates from grade school, gathered every Thursday night for decades, sharing outings at the lake and beach. The friendships they nurtured created a legacy for their children, who also formed bonds during these gatherings.
Fay maintained a close relationship with her brother, Wesley Otis, marked by deep loyalty. Fay invited Wes to live with her both before and after his service as a Marine in Vietnam. Until her move to Pinnacle, he visited her daily, a testament to their enduring bond.
Family gatherings, particularly at Christmas, were especially meaningful to Fay. She was known for her handmade dishcloths, which she knitted throughout the year. Her interests also included painting, and she lifted weights at the YMCA until an arm injury slowed her down. Saturdays were reserved for lunches with her children and grandchildren, deepening the family ties that she cherished.
Fay is predeceased by her parents and brothers, Alan and Stanley Otis, as well as her son, Gary O’Connell, of Springvale. She is survived by her daughters, Donna O’Connell of Sanford, Kelly O’Connell-Guay (Edmond) Guay of Waterboro, and Ryan O’Connell (Christina) of Sanford, alongside numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Her legacy will continue through her eight great-grandchildren, including Kaden, Sophia, and Keegan O’Connell of Sanford, and others residing in Waterboro and Charlestown, Massachusetts. Fay is also survived by her brother, Wesley Otis of Scarborough, and several nieces and nephews.
A graveside service is scheduled for the spring at Oakdale Cemetery in Sanford. In honor of Fay’s commitment to finding a cure for Parkinson’s disease, the family encourages donations to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research at michaeljfox.org/give.
