Remembering Fay O’Connell: A Life of Family and Friendship

Fay O’Connell, a beloved member of the Sanford community, passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on January 17, 2026. Surrounded by family at Pinnacle Health & Rehab, she received compassionate care throughout her battle with Parkinson’s disease. Her life story is marked by strong family ties, lasting friendships, and a dedication to her community.

Early Life and Family

Born on March 20, 1935, in Springvale, Maine, Fay was the daughter of Paul and Evelina Otis. She was raised in a close-knit family, actively participating in sports and cheering during her school years. Fay graduated from high school in 1953 and cherished the time spent with her relatives, especially her cousin Betty Rankin, engaging in spirited games of Michigan Rummy.

On September 19, 1953, Fay married musician Fred O’Connell, establishing a nurturing home on Middle Street where they raised four children. As her children grew into their teenage years, Fay transitioned into a professional role as an insurance agent for John Hancock. This position allowed her to develop not only her career but also enduring friendships within the community. Later, she expanded her career by working in advertising at The Sanford News and serving as a secretary at Sanford Adult Education during the evenings.

A Life of Community and Friendship

A devout communicant of St. Ignatius and later Holy Family Church, Fay converted to Catholicism prior to her marriage. Her social life was enriched by a special group of friends known as The Thursday Night Girls. This circle, formed mainly by her classmates from grade school, met every Thursday for decades, creating a treasure trove of memories through outings at the lake, the beach, and gatherings at home.

Fay shared a particularly close relationship with her brother, Wesley Otis. Their bond was characterized by deep loyalty and affection, with Fay inviting Wes to live with her during his service as a Marine in Vietnam. Even after she moved to Pinnacle, he made a point to visit her daily.

Family gatherings and holiday celebrations, especially Christmas, were highlights of Fay’s life. She was well-known for her hand-knitted dishcloths, which delighted family members. Fay also enjoyed painting, lifting weights at the YMCA until an arm injury prompted her to slow down, and cherishing Saturday lunches with her children and grandchildren.

Fay’s legacy includes her children, Donna O’Connell, Kelly O’Connell-Guay (Edmond Guay), and Ryan O’Connell (Christina), along with her grandchildren, who include Shane (Kendra) O’Connell, Julie Letourneau, Janna (Ryan) Donohue, Tyler (Megan) Guay, Kyle Guay, Kristen O’Connell, and Megan O’Connell. She was also blessed with eight great-grandchildren, who will carry on her memory.

Predeceased by her parents, brothers Alan and Stanley Otis, and her son Gary O’Connell, Fay is also survived by her brother Wesley Otis of Scarborough, as well as several nieces and nephews from Maine to Kentucky.

A graveside service is scheduled for the spring at Oakdale Cemetery in Sanford. In honor of Fay’s commitment to fighting Parkinson’s disease, family and friends are encouraged to make donations to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research at michaeljfox.org/give.

Fay O’Connell’s life exemplified love, resilience, and community spirit. Her contributions to her family and friends will be fondly remembered and cherished by all who knew her.