Hugh F. Donnelly III

July 26, 1949 – November 4, 2025

Hugh F. Donnelly III of Rockland, MA, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Quincy, MA on July 26, 1949, Hugh dedicated his life to serving his community and those around him with honor and compassion.

A proud member of the Rockland Police Department, Hugh began his career as an officer and was later promoted to Detective—a role he cherished deeply. He took great pride in serving the town of Rockland and was truly fulfilled by his work protecting and supporting others.

Hugh was married to the love of his life, June “Pat” Donnelly, for over three decades until her passing earlier this year. Their bond was one of true devotion, laughter, and enduring love. He found great comfort in the thought of being reunited with her once again.

He leaves behind his beloved children: Hugh F. Donnelly IV of Brockton; Karen Laugalis of Rockland; Michelle Kennedy and her husband Manny of Rockland; Kim Donnelly of Braintree; and Kelly McMillan and her husband Rodney of Browns Mills, NJ.

Hugh was also the proud “Papa” to his grandchildren, who were the light of his life: Darian Allen and his partner Shauna Walsh of Saugus; Devin Donnelly and his partner Adrianna Lynch of Brockton; Mia Gomes of Rockland; Makayla Kennedy of Taunton; Ava Kennedy of Taunton; Emily Laugalis of Rockland; and Leila Kennedy of Rockland. He also adored his great-granddaughter, Ellie Allen Walsh of Saugus, who brought him endless joy.

He is also survived by his niece Beth Lemire and her husband Tom of Acton, his nephew Bill Burke and his wife Karen of Centerville, and the entire MacDonald clan, whom he loved dearly.

Hugh’s greatest joy came from time spent with family and friends—especially summer days around the pool, holidays filled with laughter, and moments of simple togetherness. Proud of his Irish heritage, he loved visiting the Irish Village in Cape Cod with Pat, and their favorite adventure was their unforgettable trip to Ireland.

He was also a proud member of the Rockland Fraternal Order of Eagles, where he built many lasting friendships over the years.

Hugh will be remembered for his unwavering love of family, his service to his community, and the warmth and humor he brought to all who knew him.

The Donnelly family invites friends and loved ones to celebrate Hugh’s life in the Magoun-Biggins Funeral Home on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 from 4:00-7:00 PM. A funeral service will be held in the United Church of Christ located at 10 Bedford St. Abington Massachusetts on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow in the Holy Family Cemetery in Rockland.