June 2015
Category: RAMS ALUMNI
Gloucester Catholic 100th Year Anniversary
| Rams Centennial Social Saturday, November 8, in GCHS Gymnasium: Registration Now Open! |
image source Gloucester Catholic High School
| Share Your Memories of GCHS! The 2025-26 school year marks the centennial celebration of Gloucester Catholic High School, a significant milestone for generations of alumni. It’s tme to reconnect with old friends, share cherished memories, bring out our school spirit and honor our legacy. Share your school memories with us and we’ll post them on Facebook and Instagram. Click Here to Share your memories For more info on the GCHS Centennial Celebration, Click Here |
MY CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN HAVE MADE US PROUD
Dear Family,
GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (CNBNEWS)–Today, at St. Mary’s Church, I looked at all of you. I was struck by the powerful lyrics of a Darius Rucker song that capture our family’s essence. I’ve included a verse from that song along with the link below—make time to listen. (photo courtesy of St. Mary’s Facebook)
It won’t be like this for long
One day soon, that girl is gonna be
All grown up and gone
Yeah, this phase is gonna fly by
So, he’s tryin to hold on
Cause it won’t be like this for long
It won’t be like this for long.
, Preform by Darius Rucker
Reflecting on this song brought vivid memories of each of your births—Kelly Ann, Connie Lynn, and Billy. Your bright blonde hair and radiant smiles were undeniable gifts from heaven. Yes, you tested our patience at times, but the joy you brought into our lives far outweighed any challenges. Your mother and I felt young and vibrant, and I wouldn’t trade those days for anything. Watching you grow into a strong woman and a remarkable man fills me with pride, especially as you now bless us with wonderful grandchildren who are continuing this legacy of love.
Sitting in church this past Sunday, I reminisced about my time as a young altar boy, serving alongside the priest while my father sat in his customary spot, lost in prayer. Those moments reminded me of my life journey, from childhood to the present, and how swiftly the years have flown by.
You deserve to know about the simplicity of your mom’s and my upbringing. Life back then was straightforward, and we often took our good fortune for granted. I am genuinely concerned about the challenges you face today. Growing up in today’s world is undoubtedly difficult, and I want you all to understand that you have my unwavering support.
I often think of my parents and the time I would have loved to spend with them. Watching them age was painful, as they became almost childlike in their needs. Many nights, I cried in silence, wishing for their peace. I miss my brother and the invaluable conversations we shared.
Now, I fully grasp my father’s tears while listening to music in his final days. He was likely reflecting on his own life, as I do now.
I stand firm in saying that I have been blessed with a wonderful life, and a significant part of that comes from each of you. My only regret is not expressing my love for you more often—I know your mother would feel the same way.
You each make me proud in your own unique way, and I want you to know that we could not ask for a better family.
With all our Love,
Dad, Grandfather, Mom, Grandmom
Kevin O\’Donnell “Heavy Kevy”, of Williamstown, formerly of Gloucester City, Rams Alum
Kevin aka “Heavy Kevy”, O\’Donnell, age 59 of Williamstown, New Jersey passed away peacefully on March 12, 2020 surrounded by his family. Beloved husband to Vickie (nee Curtis) O’Donnell, devoted father to daughters Devin and Riane
“Heavy Kevy”
O’Donnell. Cherished son of Thomas J. O’Donnell and the late Kathleen (nee Delahunty) O’Donnell. Son-in-law of Wilma Curtis and the late Charles T. Curtis. Kevin was happily married to Vickie O’Donnell for 21 years. There is nothing in the world he valued more than his family. He is survived by 5 siblings – whom all share the most remarkable bond with each other. Dr. Deborah Mulgrew (Joe), Kelly Duffy (John), Tricia Cunningham-McNulty (the late Steve McNulty), Michael O’Donnell (Denise), and Thomas E. O’Donnell, Esq. (Ruth). He is also survived by an uncle, aunts, cousins and many nieces and nephews.
Kevin was from Gloucester City, New Jersey. He graduated from Gloucester Catholic High School in 1978 as a proud Ram. He received a degree in business and finance from West Liberty University. Kevin worked briefly as a stockbroker but most of his career was in the mortgage industry. He was a valued employee of Greentree Mortgage Company in Gibbsboro, New Jersey. Kevin worked in the mortgage and banking industry for over 30 years. He was an active member of the New Jersey Mortgage Bankers Association and was commonly considered a “mortgage savant”.
Kevin was well-known as Heavy Kevy, a champion Wing Bowl competitor and commentator. He was a proud winner of Wing Bowl 2 and 3 and went on to be inducted into the WIP Wing Bowl Hall of Fame. If you knew anything about Kevin O’Donnell, you knew he had impeccable style. He was always well dressed, and he enjoyed working as a mortgage banker very much. He was a devout Catholic, and a friend to anyone in need. As a kind and compassionate man, he sought every opportunity to comfort and support those who needed help in any situation. He enjoyed coaching football, watching sports, hanging out with his girls and binge-watching Dallas, The Sopranos and Live PD. An avid music lover – Kevin could quote the lyrics to nearly any song between 1970 and 2000. A Phillies and Eagles fan till the end, he assures us all he will talk to the Big Guy about getting us another Super Bowl win this year.
There will be a viewing from 6:00pm to 9:00pm Monday evening at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME, RUNNEMEDE. Viewing Tuesday morning 9:00am to 10:00am at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME, RUNNEMEDE. Funeral Mass 11:00 am at St. Mary’s Church Gloucester City, New Jersey. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Kevin’s name, payable to the Ram Fund c/o Gloucester Catholic High School, 333 Ridgeway Street, Gloucester City, NJ 08030.
Gloucester Catholic\’s Philanthropy Week
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Announcing our 3rd Annual Philanthropy Week! In 3 weeks, March Madness returns to Gloucester Catholic. Your support of #OurWeekForGC makes a profound difference. Starting March 23rd, it\’s your chance to show pride and gratitude for the impact that GC has on each of us. We thank you in advance.
VENMO
@gcramsgiving
ONLINE
http://gchsrams.org/wordpress/?p=10085
TRADITIONAL MAIL
Kindly make check payable to:
Gloucester Catholic High School
333 Ridgeway Street
Gloucester City, NJ 08030
Memo PW 2020
LINE OF MARCHSAINT MARY’S/GLOUCESTER CITY FIFTH ANNUAL SAINT PATRICK’S PARADE SUNDAY, MARCH 1
by CNBNews Staff
GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (February 29, 2020)—-The annual St. Mary\’s Parish/Gloucester City St. Patrick\’s Day Parade is scheduled to begin at 1 PM sharp rain or shine. The parade will take the same route as last year, forming and staging at the Martin’s Lake area, at Johnson Blvd. and Baynes Ave. marching on Johnson Blvd. to Monmouth Street, up Monmouth Street to King, and dispersing at the former Coast Guard Base parking lot, King and Cumberland Streets.
It will begin at Johnson Blvd and Baynes Avenue, north to Monmouth and Johnson Blvd., move west on Monmouth Street to King Street and south on King Street to Proprietors Park.
The following bands and marching units will be in the line of march:
South Philadelphia, Quaker City, Fralinger, Woodland, Avalon, Aqua, Uptown, Duffy, Durning, and the Gloucester City String Band.
The Camden County Emerald Society, Second Street Irish Society, Trenton AOH, ACFD Sand Pipers, and Brian Boru Pipes and Drums Bands.
The Misty Dewers and The Broken Shillelaghs Irish Bands.
The Two Street Stompers Comic Brigade. The Jordan-Hunt and the Emerald Isle Irish Dance Schools.
The parade\’s Grand Marshall is Ed Beckett, principal of Gloucester Catholic High School and the Celebrity Parade Marshall is Bob Kelly from Fox 29 News. Honor guest is the Deputy Consul General from Ireland Sean O’Hay
Gloucester City’s own radio disc jockey Kathy Townsend Suckiel from the B101.1 radio station will be present with the B101 mascot,
Buzzbee!
RELATED:
Gloucester City PD Issues Road Closures/Parking Restrictions for Parade
Below is the parade line-up set for 12 noon at the staging area
Camden County Emerald Society (olive-wolverine-471793.hostingersite.com file photo)
LINE-UP IS AT 12:00 NOON IN THE STAGING AREA
POSITIONS #A-#G LINE UP IS ON JOHNSON BLVD. BETWEEN FRANCIS ST. & BAYNES AVE.
POSITION “A”-VFW & AMERICAN LEGION COLOR GUARD & ROTC COLOR GUARD FROM GLOUCESTER HIGH SCHOOL WITH USMC MARINES BRETT & DALTON KENNEY
POSITION “B” CELEBRITY PARADE MARSHAL BOB KELLY AND QUAKER CITY STRING BAND WITH MSGR. HODGE, DEPUTY CONSUL GENERAL FROM IRELAND, MAYOR DAN SPENCER
POSITION “C”-2020 GRAND MARSHAL ED BECKETT AND GLOUCESTER CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL PARTICIPANTS
POSITION “D”-KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS WITH ST. PATRICK’S STATUE
POSITION “E”-DURNING STRING BAND
POSITION “F” CITY COUNCIL, COUNTY FREEHOLDERS, STATE LEGISLATORS, OTHER DIGNITARIES AND ELECTED OFFICIALS, CAMDEN COUNTY MASCOTS
POSITION “G” THE MISTY DEWERS
POSITIONS #1-#5-Francis Street and East Brown Street
SOUTH JERSEY MOBILE BILLBOARD TRUCK
ANYZEK FUELS ANTIQUE TRUCKS/CARS-JIM PARENT, 1939 GREEN BUICK
GARDEN STATE CORVETTE CLUB ON FRANCIS STREET
GLOUCESTER CITY OLDTIMERS STRING BAND
ANTIQUE CARS/TRUCKS-JIM PARENT IN HIS 1939 GREEN BUICK
-DONNELLY-GATTO FUNERAL HOME ROLLS ROYCE HEARSE & STAFF
POSITIONS #6–#21-HIGHLAND BLVD DOWN TO GREENWOOD AVENUE
PUBLIC WORKS TRAILER WITH LADIES AOH, CATHOLIC DAUGHTERS OF AMERICA’S, AND LITTLE MISS/MR. GLOUCESTER CITY
TRENTON AOH BAGPIPE BAND
GLOUCESTER CITY FIRE DEPT COLOR GUARD & MARCHERS
GLOUCESTER CITY FIRE DEPT. APPARATUS
DUFFY STRING BAND
GLOUCESTER CITY IRISH SOCIETY
GLOUCESTER CITY HIGH SCHOOL COLOR GUARD, MARCHING BAND, & SCHOOL CLUBS
UPTOWN STRING BAND
GLOUCESTER CITY MIDDLE SCHOOL & COLD SPRINGS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
IRISH SETTAR CLUB OF SOUTH JERSEY
CAMDEN COUNTY EMERALD SOCIETY
CAIRDEAS IRISH BIRGADE (JOHN SCILLIG-SCHILEEN’S TAVERN-WESTVILLE, NJ)
MARK’S ANTIQUE FIRE TRUCK???? AND/OR FOUR LEAF RESTORATION COMPANY
AQUA STRING BAND
AOH GLOUCESTER COUNTY DIVISION I-COMMODORE JOHN BARRY-LARRY PRELLE, DIRECTOR
BRIAN BORU PIPES AND DRUMS BAND-KEVIN FLATLEY DRUM MAJOR
POSITIONS #22-#38 KLEMM AVENUE TO SYLVAN AVENUE
AVALON STRING BAND
GLOUCESTER CITY YOUTH SOCCER
JORDAN HUNT SCHOOL OF IRISH DANCE
GLOUCESTER CITY LITTLE LEAGUE
SECOND STREET IRISH SOCIETY PIPES & DRUMS
MINI HORSE’S PONY CLUB-LONG ACRES FARM-MARY LEDGER
WOODLAND STRING BAND
CUB SCOUTS TROOP OF GLOUCESTER CITY???/ QUINN FAMILY WITH IRISH WOLFHOUND SEAMUS
FRALINGER STRING BAND
COMMUNITY ROCKS CORP.-ERIN OSLER/SARA O’BRIEN
ATLANTIC CITY FIREFIGHTERS SAND PIPERS
EPIPHANY CHURCH OF GLOUCESTER CITY-PASTOR JOE MARLIN
SOUTH PHILADELPHIA STRING BAND
HIGHLAND TAVERN FLOAT WITH BIG DADDY
EMERALD ISLE ACADEMY OF IRISH DANCE
TWO STREET STOMPERS COMIC BRIGADE CHAMPIONS
TAVERN ON THE EDGE PRESENTS “THE BROKEN SHILELLEGHS”
Gov. Phil Murphy hugging Brooklawn Mayor Teri Branella at the 2018 parade
Red Bank’s 11th Annual Wedding Walk Returns
Free wedding planning event features top professionals, venues and latest trends to help you plan all of your nuptial needs
RED BANK, NJ – The Red Bank Wedding Walk is back again and will take place on Sunday, March 22, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is free and open to engaged couples with and without a set wedding date. Kicking off a new decade, the Red Bank Wedding Walk will provide brides and grooms the opportunity to interact with more than 40 local wedding businesses and professionals providing the latest trends, styles and ideas to make their special day an unforgettable event!
Attendees are asked to register in advance by visiting
www.RedBankWeddingWalk.com
, where they can also browse the participating businesses and map out an itinerary in advance to make the most of the day!
Brides and grooms will begin the event at 10 a.m. by checking in at the Oyster Point Hotel, a beautiful waterfront venue located at 146 Bodman Place. At check-in, guests will be given a map, passport and tote while enjoying a complimentary continental breakfast. Passports should be stamped at each participating business in order to be entered to win door prizes and incredible grand prizes! Eligible passports must have at least 14 locations stamped by each business during the Wedding Walk.
From there, each entourage will set off on a self-guided tour to explore potential rehearsal dinner locations, award-winning wedding venues, photography and videography professionals, entertainment and transportation experts, hair and makeup salons, and, of course, dress boutiques offering options for the bride and bridal party – and much, much more! Around 3 p.m., attendees should begin to make their way back to the Molly Pitcher Inn’s breathtaking promenade for an exciting reception featuring music, savory treats, libations, prizes and a champagne toast.
During the closing reception, winners of the fabulous grand prizes, as well as a wide array of fun door prizes, will be drawn. Prizes include an all-inclusive honeymoon trip courtesy of Liberty Travel, a romantic getaway package at the Molly Pitcher/Oyster Point, a DJ entertainment package from Hurricane Productions, and many more wonderful offerings from Red Bank businesses.
George \”Mickey\” D. Graham, Jr. of Gloucester City; Retired Mailman, Korean War Army Vet., Rams Alum
Surrounded by his loving family, at home, on February 21, 2020. Age 88. Lifelong resident of Gloucester City. Loving husband of 54 years to Theresa A. Graham (nee McQuaid). Loving father of Theresa Graham Hughes and her husband, Robert, Patricia Graham
McCahill and her husband, Kevin and Christine Graham. Cherished Poppy of Christopher, Daniel and Patrick Hughes, Kevin, Matthew and Thomas McCahill and Frank and Kimberly King. Predeceased by his sisters, Sarah Graham Leidvanger and Helen Graham Laskey. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
Mickey was a graduate of Gloucester Catholic class of 1949, where he was the editor and chief of the yearbook committee. He continued his studies at Drexel University before proudly serving our country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Mickey was a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service for 38 years in Bellmawr and Gloucester City. He was a member of the Gloucester City Senior Citizens Association. Mickey will be remembered for his vast knowledge and love of sports but most all the love he gave to his wife, children and grandchildren.
Relatives and friends are invited to his visitation on Thursday morning, February 27, 2020 from 9:45 AM to 11:45 AM at St. Mary’s R.C. Church, 426 Monmouth St., Gloucester City. Mass of Christian Burial 12 Noon in the church. Interment with U.S. Army honors will follow in New St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr.
In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to Msgr. Lucitt’s Needy Children’s Fund, P.O. Box 87, Gloucester City, NJ 08030. Please memo, George D. Graham, Jr.
Condolences and Memories may be shared at
www.mccannhealey.com
under the obituary of George D. Graham, Jr. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries through: McCANN–HEALEY FUNERAL HOME, Gloucester City Ph:856-456-1142
*Gloucester City St. Patrick\’s Parade, Sunday, March 1
GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ– The NJ Irish Society presents events and initiatives year-round as part of paying tribute to our strong history of tradition. Based in the heart of Gloucester City, NJ Irish Society was formally founded in 2019 after serving the community as a whole for decades, with our event roster featuring the sensational
“can’t miss” Irish Parade
and growing series of cultural programming and festivities.
The New Jersey Irish Society is vested in sustaining a vibrant community with excellent quality of life for the residents and visitors. Gloucester City has a rich history of Irish heritage dating back to the 1600’s when Irish Quakers first settled in the Town of Gloucester, now known as Gloucester City. That tradition continues today with the City ranking 9th in the nation for Irish American population.
The New Jersey Irish Society is working closely with the City of Gloucester, Camden County, area businesses, community groups and residents to keep these traditions alive in our community. \”We began in 2016 with our inaugural St. Patrick’s Day parade, which brought thousands to the City and its businesses to celebrate the holiday. We are thrilled to be celebrating our 5th Anniversary as South Jersey’s not-to-be-missed parade extravaganza, featuring the best in entertainment!\”
This year\’s parade is being held on Sunday, March 1, 2020 starting at 1PM. The parade route begins at Martin\’s Lake, Johnson Blvd and Baynes Avenue to the end of Monmouth Street ending at King Street.
RELATED:
The Irish of Gloucester City Celebrate The 100th Anniversary of Irish Independence
Sunday, March 06, 2016
UPDATE SEE MORE PHOTOS Photo (s) Credit CNBNews Staff The Most Reverend Dennis J. Sullivan, Bishop of the Camden Diocese, (center) and Monsignor William Hodge, (left) Pastor of St. Mary\’s Parish, Gloucester City lead the…
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St. Mary\’s Parish Secretary Dan Spencer Resigning
by CNBNews Staff
GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (February 10, 2020)—St. Mary\’s Parish Secretary Dan Spencer will be stepping down from his position on April 9 after serving in that capacity for the past 2.5
years.
When asked about a rumor that he was resigning from his mayor position he laughed. \”No, I am resigning from my full-time job as a parish secretary. It is just too much juggling that job with the mayor\’s position. I am going to do some part-time work and focus more time on being mayor. The new parish community center (next to the rectory) will be opening in April and I felt that this was a good time to make a move. I spoke with Monsignor Hodge (pastor) about it and he understood my reasons. I will still be helping the parish in some way once a week.\”
Spencer, who was elected as mayor of Gloucester City in November 2018, began his four-year term in January 2019 succeeding Bill James.
Prior to taking over the mayor position, he was a city councilman.
Five years ago Spencer retired from his job with Camden County with 30 years of service.
published
olive-wolverine-471793.hostingersite.com
Related:
January 2019 CNBNews CHEERS AND JEERS
Bill James, The Longest Serving Mayor in Gloucester City\’s History Dies Suddenly