Philip Albert O'Donnell, 74, of Owings passed away August 31, 2021 at his residence. He was born September 4, 1946 in South Boston, MA to Patrick Albert and Agnes Frances (Kennedy) O'Donnell. Phil was raised in Boston and lived in the Warden's House on Deer Island where his father was the Warden of the prison. Phil joined the United States Army on April 25, 1966 and was honorably discharged on January 24, 1969 after serving two tours of duty in Vietnam and receiving three Purple Hearts. Following his honorable discharge Phil joined the Metropolitan Police Department and started his more than 50-year career in law enforcement. He obtained the rank of Deputy Chief of Police with the Metropolitan Police Department and retired after 27 years of service. He then joined the Brunswick Police Department as Police Chief until becoming Assistant Secretary for Maryland State Department of Juvenile Services in Baltimore. Phil was currently serving as Chief of Police for the city of Glenarden and was set to officially retire on September 1. Phil married Lois Pancko on March 21, 1969 and they lived in Alexandria and Seabrooke before moving to Owings in 1985. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing, crabbing, his corvette, hockey, and spending time with his family. Phil was also an off-ice official with the National Hockey League and the Washington Capitals for over 40 years, while also providing part time security services for the team and NHL. Phil's dedication and love of his work in law enforcement touched many different communities throughout his long career. He was a kind and hardworking man who will be greatly missed.

Phil is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Lois O'Donnell, children Mary Healey (Patrick) of North Beach, Patrick O'Donnell (Devon) of Chesapeake Beach, and Michael O'Donnell (Michelle) of Huntingtown, grandchildren Connor, Regan, Ian, Abbie, Lucy, Hannah, Olivia, and Emilie, brother Michael O'Donnell of Winthrop, MA, and cousin Mary Conroy.

Interment will take place at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.


Life Celebration Visitation
Friday, September 10, 2021
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Rausch Funeral Home-Owings
8325 Mt. Harmony Lane
Owings, MD 20736