Edward Joseph O’Donnell Jr., aged 78 years, of Middleboro, died Thurs. May 3, 2007, at his home, unexpectedly. He was the husband of Margurite A. (Francoline) O’Donnell; they had been married for 56 years. Born in Brockton , August 31, 1928, he was the son of the late Edward J. and Mary (McSweeney) O’Donnell. Educated in Brockton , he had also attended Stone Hill College , for several years. He had been employed for the New England Telephone Company in Brockton , and retired after 30 years of service. He was a WWII Veteran, serving in the United States Army, from September of 1946 to August of 1949. He was a member of Sacred Heart Church , Middleboro, and the V.F.W. Post #2188 in Middleboro. He will be fondly remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Survivors include his wife of 56 years, two sons; of Edward J. III and his wife Evelyena O’Donnell of New Zealand , Thomas P. and his wife Melissa O’Donnell of San Diego , CA , one daughter; Kathleen A. and her husband Alan Masse of Windsor, CT, two brothers; Paul O’Donnell of Middleboro, Robert O’Donnell of San Diego, two sisters; Susan Gallagher, Jane Goodwin, both of San Diego, seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was the brother of the late Terrance O’Donnell. Funeral will be held from the Ashley Funeral Home, 35 Oak St. Middleboro, on Tues. May 8, 2007, at 9:30am, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Sacred Heart Church, 340 Centre St. Middleboro, at 10:30am. Burial will follow at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours will be Mon. 2-4 & 6-8pm.