Cadyville, NY - Passed away peacefully on Friday, May 22, 2026, at his home in Cadyville, N.Y., surrounded by his family. Derry was known to many of his colleagues, friends, and family as DOC and more recently was known as grandpa-bear. Derry was the oldest of three sons born to Maurice and Norma (Salls) O'Connell and was born on Dec. 31, 1939, in Plattsburgh, N.Y.

Derry is preceded in death by his brothers Thomas E. O'Connell of Cadyville and John E. O'Connell of Cadyville.

Derry taught high school math at Saranac Central School for 37 years. Derry earned his Master's degree at Plattsburgh State University. He loved teaching and dedicated his career to ensuring all Saranac students would have a solid math education.

Derry enjoyed gardening and was an avid reader, subscribing to many magazines and publications. Derry lived in the house he built with his father and brother where his family now resides. He was secretary for the Cadyville Volunteer Fire Department for many years.

Derry is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Katherine (Bero) O'Connell and his two children: Erin Lee O'Connell and Stephen D. O'Connell as well as his grandchildren John, Catherine and Daniel O'Connell.

A Celebration of Life will be held for friends and relatives at the Mosaic Church in Cadyville (2083 Route 3 Cadyville) on Saturday, May 30th, from 12 to 2 p.m. Derry will be buried in the family plot at the Cadyville Protestant cemetery directly following the Celebration.

Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of the North Country.