Arthur O’Donnell, who served as Gulf’s principal in 1974-75, died this morning (Jan. 2). He had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2013.
Dr. O’Donnell began his teaching career in 1968 as a math teacher at Gulf Middle School. He later became a math teacher at Gulf High School. He became the GHS Principal on July 1, 1974, and held the position until November 1975. After serving as Principal at Gulf High School, he served as Principal Gulf Junior High School (1975-77) and at Hudson and Ridgewood high schools until he retired at the end of the 2002-2003 school year.
He was born in 1946 South Amboy, N. J., and held a B.A. from Wagner College in New York City and a master’s degree from USF.
Dr. O’Donnell was well-liked by students and the faculty. He returned to Gulf High to attend the homecoming pep rally after he had transferred to Gulf Middle. Students gave him a standing ovation when he was introduced.
Viewing will be on Sunday from 5-8 pm at Morgan Funeral Home, 6025 Trouble Creek Road, New Port Richey. The funeral will be at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 5340 High Street, New Port Richey, Monday at noon.
An article at tampabay.com is here.
