Robert James Donnelly

PALM HARBOR, Fla. – Robert James Donnelly, 85, of Palm Harbor, Fla., formerly of Portland, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025.

Born on Jan. 31, 1940, in Portland, Robert was the beloved son of William Henry and Margaret (Malia) Donnelly. He was one of eight children and the only boy in a lively, close-knit Irish Catholic family. He was an active participant in school life at Cathedral Grammar School and served as an altar boy and was in Monsignor Boltz’ famous choir. After graduating from Portland High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, stationed in Hawaii, continuing a life marked by service, faith, and dedication.

Robert met his wife, Sandra “Sandie” Donnelly, later in life, and they married in 1988. Together they shared many years of love, laughter, and faith. Robert opened Donnelly Cleaning Service and was proud to have cleaned the Bishop’s House as well as the rectory for The Cathedral of Immaculate Conception.

After retirement Robert moved to Florida, but he never slowed down. He worked at LA Fitness well into his later years and never officially retired. He found purpose in hard work and was always striving to make those around him laugh with his sharp wit and signature Irish sense of humor.

Robert was a devoted brother to his sisters and a caring stepfather to Sandie’s six children. One of his most cherished memories was a 1986 trip to Ireland with his mother and all seven of his sisters. Robert lived a life of humility, humor, and heart.

Robert was predeceased by his wife, Sandie; his parents William and Margaret Donnelly; and his stepdaughter, Anne Libby.

He is survived by his seven sisters, Ann Cobb (John), Kathleen Record (Richard), Jane Rogan (James), Lorraine Rava (Jean Philip), Francine Bowden (William), Margaret Johnson (Chester) and Dianne Doyle (John), his stepchildren, David Thoits, Pam Moreau, Shawn Thoits, Paul Thoits and Ryan Thoits. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, who will remember him fondly as “Uncle Bobby”; and countless friends who will remember his jokes, his faith, and his unwavering devotion to family.

Visiting hours will be held from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 11 at the Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home of Portland, 172 State St. Prayers will be recited at the funeral home at 9:30 a.m. followed by a 10 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 307 Congress St. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, 1461 Broadway, South Portland.

To view Robert’s Memorial Page or to share an online condolence, please visit http://www.ConroyTullyWalker.com.