With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Albert E. Donaghy, a man of unwavering dedication, love, and service to his family, community, and country. Born on August 30th, 1932, in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Albert lived a life filled with purpose and achievement.

Albert, affectionately known as Al, spent his formative years in New Bedford, where he was born to Francis and Hazel Donaghy. A graduate of New Bedford Vo-tech, Al was a distance runner and represented his school several times in the Massachusetts state meets. It was there he receive his training to be a licensed electrician that he would use well into his 80's, a testament to his dedication to his craft.

He enlisted in the Army at a time when he could have waited to be drafted and served his country bravely during the Korean Conflict, a testament to his patriotism and courage. Upon his return, he embarked on a journey of love, marrying the love of his life, Ellen M. Sisk of Brooklyn, New York. Together, they shared a beautiful partnership of 64 years.

Their union was blessed with four children: Frank (wife Donna) of Stoughton, MA, John (wife Kristy) of Nashua, NH, Barbara (husband Chris) of Raynham, MA and Michael (wife Erin) of West Roxbury, MA. He also is survived by his sister of 90 years, Edna Bumpus of Marion, MA. Al was also a cherished grandfather to nine grandchildren, Sean, Brian, Adam, Sara, Michael, Abby, Grace, Bridget and Patrick, ranging in age from 32 to 9 years old. His legacy will continue to live on through them.

Al was not only a devoted family man but also an active member of his community. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Abington for more than 55 years serving in multiple leadership positions. His faith in the Lord never wavered. He was a founding member of the Colonial Road Runners and was the Boston Marathon Mile 16 water stop captain for over 25 years. Al influenced many young men serving in local scout troop 42 for many years. Countless people have been inspired by his investment in others. His commitment to the community was unparalleled, and his contributions will be remembered for years to come.

Always of man of action, he took up running again in his 30's and ran competitively well into his 60's. He ran the Boston Marathon 9 times. His love for adventure and the outdoors brought him and all those he took a long with him to new places including most of the 50 states, Canadian provinces and Europe. He learned to sail also in his 30's and continued sailing competitively in the Spar Island/TYC racing association well into his late 80's on his beloved Nonsuch appropriately named the Ellen M. Al learned to scuba dive and taught his children to follow suit. He introduced his wife to camping when they were dating, and it ultimately led to two 6-week cross country camping trips that expanded his children's view of the world and changed their lives forever.

He spent most of his career at Polaroid, working in New Bedford, Waltham, and Cambridge starting as an electrician and eventually working his way into the engineering department. He was famous there for his sense of humor at company outings and the creation of a competitive running event titled the Conti  Cup. There wasn't much he couldn't fix and his ability to troubleshoot any challenge was unmatched. He passed many of those skills to his children and colleagues. Born a depression baby, he was always thrifty reminding his children never to pay anyone for something you can do yourself and shared with all many depression era pearls of wisdom. Of course, his love for the old classic singers like Eddie Arnold and Herb Alpert would be shared when sailing whether you were a fan or not.

For those who knew Al, he always had a witty comment, a joke to share and would humbly serve those in need. Al never met a person he wouldn't talk to. He never could sit idle and was at his best when tinkering with something. He wasn't quick to offer praise, but all knew when he was most proud of you.

Albert E. Donaghy was not just a man of action but also a man of heart. His life was a testament to the power of love, service, and dedication. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the community he served so faithfully.

Rest in peace, Al. Your spirit will live on in the hearts of those you've touched.

Visitation will be held at Quealy & Son Funeral Home 116 Adams Street Abington on Friday November 8, 2024 from 4 PM to 7 PM. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday November 9, 2024 at 10 AM at First Baptist Church, 219 Adams Street Abington, MA. Interment to follow with military honors at Mt. Vernon Cemetery Abington.