NORWALK, CONN Dr. Barbara McDonnell Hennessy, 79, died Sunday, January 9, 2011 at the Norwalk Hospital in Norwalk, CT following a brief illness. She leaves 6 children and their 4 spouses, John F Hennessy III, Kathleen M. Hennessy, James M Hennessy (Janis), Kevin P Hennessy (Elaine), Peter B Hennessy (Lisa) and David B Hennessy (Jackie); 10 grandchildren, Brian, Hannah, Jake, Kerry, Will, Kelly, Erin, Andrew, Brooks and Bradley; and 2 sisters, Mary Murnane and Margie Murphy, Brother-in-law Br. Paul Hennessy, and many close friends. Born and raised in Manhattan, the daughter of Anna and James McDonnell she lived in Connecticut for over 50 years. She was the 12th of Anna and James' fourteen children. In her early years, she attended the Convent of the Sacred Heart and Manhattanville College in Purchase, NY. After college she met and married John F Hennessy, Jr. in 1953. After their first child was born they moved to Norwalk, CT and they settled in New Canaan CT. As each of the six children was born, Barbara dedicated herself to raising the children. A task she did with great dedication and love. As her children excelled in life, her heart's desire was fulfilled. She returned to school in 1974 and received her MSW in 1977. She entered private practice shortly thereafter and continued to practice until she became ill in Mid-December 2010. She helped many people live fuller and more fruitful lives. A lifelong learner she continued to pursue education and received her PhD in 1996. She enjoyed being called Dr. Hennessy. She had the gift for being able to relate to all people. She brought light into every life she touched and every person she met. She lived a very full life and all who knew her were better for having known her. In lieu of flowers please donate to Whitby School in Greenwich or The Congregational Church of New Canaan. A memorial service will be held at The Congregational Church of New Canaan, 23 Park St., New Canaan, CT 06840 at 11:30am Friday January 14, 2011 with a reception to follow at the New Canaan Country Club. Norwalk's Hoyt-Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 5 East Wall Street, is honored to assist the Hennessy family with the arrangements.
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