Richard “Dickie” O’Donnell, a lifelong resident of Melrose, a devoted husband, father, uncle,son and friend passed away on February 28, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by the family he loved so dearly.

Born in 1953 to the late George and Alberta O’Donnell, Dickie was one of six children. A proud graduate of Melrose High School, he spent his youth cycling between Melrose and Woburn to visit a large extended family of cousins and grandparents, forging friendships that would last a lifetime along the way.

Dickie’s career was defined by his 40 plus-year commitment to the City of Melrose Public Works. While he held many roles, he became a municipal staple in the late 1990s as the DPW Dispatcher. As the "face of the city yard," his professionalism and warmth earned him the 2001 Municipal Employee of the Year award. He took particular pride in the annual Public Works Day. Dickie was a familiar and friendly face at the Melrose Elks, where he was both a member and a celebrated bartender, treating every patron like a lifelong friend.He was a quintessential Boston sports fan, never missing a game, and shared a deep passion for candlepin bowling—a hobby he enjoyed for years alongside his father and close friends.

On summer days, he was happiest at home, relaxing by his pool, listening to music, and soaking in the sun in the company of those he loved. Family was the cornerstone of Dickie’s life. In 1981, he married the love of his life, the late Linda (Perry) O’Donnell, with whom he raised two daughters. He cherished family summers at Newfound Lake in Bristol, NH, spirited trips to Las Vegas with his brother Johnny and best friend Lenny, and excursions to Sebago Lake in Maine. In his later years, he found great joy and companionship in his day trips with his girlfriend, Maria Serino. Dickie is survived by his devoted daughters, Sharon O'Donnell and her partner Ryan Kelly, and Shauna Perry and her husband Tobe “Michael” Oswin. He was the dear brother of John O’Donnell and his wife Patsy of Melrose, and Helen Cargill of Melrose. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Anthony Perry and his wife Beth of Tewksbury, and sister-in-laws Toni Ann Perry of Warwick, RI, and Donna Paraiso of Melrose, as well as 6 nieces, 10 nephews, and 25 great-nieces and nephews and many cousins. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Linda; his brothers George, Paul, and Neil O’Donnell; sisters-in-law Julie O’Donnell and Debby Orsillo; and his godson, John Michael O’Donnell.

Visiting hours will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 from 4:00PM-7:00PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary's Church, 4 Herbert St., Melrose on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 10:00AM, followed by the interment at Wyoming Cemetery in Melrose. Relatives & friends respectfully invited to attend.