Paul D Hennessey

Paul Douglass Hennessey, 85, of Floral City, FL passed away April 21, 2021 under the care of Life Path Hospice in Tampa, FL. He was born in New York, NY on May 30, 1935 to the late William T. and Evelyn (O’Connor) Hennessey. At age 25, Paul began his data processing career with Florida Steel Corporation and for the next 31 years he helped bring the company into the computer age. His early retirement ended quickly as Paul rejoined the company (currently Gerdau) as Director of Corporate Responsibility. In retirement, he fulfilled a life-long dream of completing his college education, earning his Bachelor of Science degree, Magna Cum Laude, from St. Leo University. He arrived in this area in 1991, coming from Tampa, to be closer to his wife’s parents. He joined them in attending Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Inverness, FL and was a past member of the Knights of Columbus. Paul enjoyed golfing with his brother-in-law and running with friends and family. He completed a marathon and then participated in triathalons with his wife. Once again, his desire to work led him to Walmart, Inc., where he enjoyed working until his 80th birthday. He was preceded in death by one brother, Robert Finkenor, and two sisters, Olive Aaronson and Patricia O’Neal. Paul is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Suzanne Gustafson Hennessey. Also mourning his loss are his children, Paul D. Hennessey II and his wife Carol of Lake City, FL, Barry E. Hennessey of Orlando, FL, Loretta Holtkamp and her husband Michael of Tampa, Sheryl Dunn and her husband Byron, and Sheila Hennessey, all of Floral City; 11 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild; and a host of family and friends grieving the loss of a beloved friend who was always ready to help, Semper Paratus. Paul celebrated the beauty of creation and all its complexities in his writings throughout his life. A Celebration of Life Service for Paul will be held on Saturday, May 8, 11:00 A.M. at the Chas. E. Davis Funeral Home, Inc., Inverness, FL, with Fr. Tim Cummings of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church officiating. The family will be receiving friends at the funeral home one hour prior to service. To the Ruby Team at LifePath Hospice, thank you for the loving care, comfort, and dignity you gave Paul. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to LifePath Hospice, Chapters Health Foundation, 3010 W. Azeele Street, #120, Tampa, FL 33609 or at https://www.chaptershealth.org/give/donate or your local Hospice Organization.