Ethel “Tillie” O’Connell passed away from natural causes on December 12, 2024, at the age of 90. Mickey ears on her head ready for the next Disney trip, she went peacefully at home in her sleep. She was surrounded by the love and support of her family, a love she reflected to friends and strangers alike. Although she has passed, her impact on life will never be forgotten. Always willing to give without being asked, Tillie was the first person on the scene at any family gathering and the last to sit down after finishing the dishes.

Born in Philadelphia to Hungarian immigrant parents, Tillie was the second youngest of thirteen children and moved to the Space Coast with her husband Geoff in 1954. With her passing, Florida thus loses a long-time resident whose life experienced the state’s changes and growth as they happened. She was part of that growth through a fulfilling career at John F. Kennedy Space Center. Her independent nature and can-do attitude were reflected both in her work, her quilting and gardening hobbies, and her penchant for traveling solo to visit family all over the country.

Family was Tillie’s true pride and joy. She is survived by five children, seven grandchildren, and one great-grandchild, all of whom carry her energetic and caring spirit into their lives and the world. She will be remembered with a private gathering for those that were closest to give her a final goodbye.