Peter O’Donnell, praised for spearheaded a ‘moon shot’ of philanthropy in Texas, dies at 97

A life of service well lived.

Big Thought mourns the loss of our friend and supporter Peter O’Donnell, Jr. who passed away at the age of 97 on October 10, 2021. O’Donnell is survived by his daughters: Ann O’Donnell, Carol Kradolfer (Lyle), and Ruth Mutch.

O’Donnell and his wife Edith, who predeceased him in 2020, were lifelong supporters of arts, education and health care. Edith Jones O’Donnell was the co-founder of Young Audiences of Greater Dallas, which later became Big Thought. We are beyond thankful to Peter and Edith for their visionary guidance and philanthropic stewardship which has positively impacted not only the millions of youth in Big Thought programs, but many more across the region and state.

Our deepest condolences go out to the O’Donnell family.

Visit the Dallas morning News to learn more about Mr. O’Donnell’s legacy.