James M. O’Donnell
April 28, 1929 – August 23, 2025
James Merlin “Jim” O’Donnell, longtime Omaha resident and retired Director of Pharmacy Services at Children’s Memorial Hospital, passed away at the age of 96.
Born April 28, 1929, in Omaha, Jim attended St. Philip Neri Grade School and Creighton Prep before earning his Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from Creighton University in 1951. That same year, he married Rose Ann Anania, beginning a marriage of more than seven decades rooted in faith, love, and teamwork. Together they raised five children: Barbara Semerad (Dave), Karen Lowe (Tim), Timothy O’Donnell, Deborah Neary (Joseph), and Gregory O’Donnell, M.D.
Jim began his career as a pharmaceutical representative with Eli Lilly & Co. before moving into
community pharmacy practice in Iowa and Omaha. Jim started and owned “O’Donnell Drugs” drugstore, located in the Blondo Plaza, from 1962-1967. In 1967, he transitioned to hospital pharmacy, first at Clarkson Hospital and later at Children’s Memorial Hospital, where he served as Director of Pharmacy from 1970 to 1995. Under his leadership, the pharmacy department became a national model for innovation in pediatric drug therapy—introducing new concepts in nutrition, IV drug delivery, computerization, and safety standards. He also established one of the nation’s first joint Pediatric Drug Information Services in collaboration with Creighton University and served as Director of the Mid-Plains Poison Control Center.
An educator at heart, Jim held teaching appointments at Creighton University School of Pharmacy and the University of Nebraska Medical Center, shaping future generations of pharmacists. His vision extended to creating a pediatric pharmacy residency program and advocating for safer medication use in children, believing strongly that “children should be treated as children, not as small adults.”
Jim’s life was not defined by titles alone but by teamwork with his beloved Rose Ann. He often said his accomplishments were theirs together—Rose Ann supporting the home front with faith and resilience while Jim advanced the profession he loved.
He was recognized as Nebraska Hospital Pharmacist of the Year in 1974, received the Creighton University Alumni Merit Award in 1991, and was awarded Lifetime Honorary Membership in the Nebraska Society of Health-System Pharmacists.
Beyond his professional life, Jim gave generously of his time in retirement—volunteering with Catholic Charities, Kiwanis, the Durham Western Heritage Museum, Pharmacists Beyond Borders, and his parish, St. James Catholic Church.
Jim will be remembered for his devotion to family, his pioneering work in pediatric pharmacy, his strong faith, and his unwavering integrity. He leaves behind a legacy of service that will live on through his 5 children, 8 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and the many lives touched by his work.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Rose Ann; parents, Thomas and Myrtle O’Donnell; brother, Robert O’Donnell; and other loved ones who now welcome him home. The family is extremely grateful to Peaceful Hearts Hospice Foundation and the dedicated caregivers that supported our parents through their transitions.
A MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL will be celebrated Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 11:00AM, St. James Church in Omaha, 4720 North 90th Street, with VISITATION beginning at 10:00AM.
INTERMENT: Calvary Cemetery
Memorials may be directed to Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Foundation, Madonna Ability Alliance, or Creighton Preparatory School.
To view live Broadcasts of the Services, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click on the “Live Cast” button at the top of the home page.
Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha, Ne 68124. (402)-391-3900. www.heafeyheafey.com
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6 Comments
We will always carry fond memories of Uncle Jim. His presence touched so many lives, and his spirit will live on in the stories we share and the love we continue to hold. Our hearts are with you all during this difficult time.
RIP, uncle Jim. Hope you and aunt rose are having coffee now. You two were wonderful to me, for which I have been and will always be grateful.
Many fond memories of the O’Donnell family. Our thoughts and prayers at his time of sorrow.
A Very Long Time Neighbor An Absolutely Lovely Gracious Gentleman That Was Enhanced By A Equally Amazing Wife In Rose Ann…My Heart Goes Out To A Great Family…RIP My Friend 🙏
Uncle Jim will always have a special place in my heart. Not only was he my uncle but he was my Godfather and Confirmation sponsor. So very grateful for the faith he passed on to me and his prayers over the years. Much love and prayers to all during this difficult time.
Mr. O’Donnell was the greatest pharmacy leader, the greatest mentor, and the greatest pediatric patient advocate in my 35 years of hospital pharmacy practice. His impact was enormous and it was a privilege to be on his staff. My sincere condolences to all of his family. He had a long life, but we have lost a very outstanding man.
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