From Genealogical and Personal History of Western Pennsylvania:
William Donnelly, son of Samuel and Jane (Lenaghan) Donnelly, was born in county Armagh, Ireland, September 26, 1885, and, being brought to the United States by his parents, was educated in the public schools. He determined upon plumbing as his occupation and after learning his trade worked thereat for a time before, in 1908, assuming the management of the business founded by his father. Since that year he has been its sole proprietor, and under his direction the flourishing trade attracted to the house by Samuel Donnelly has steadily increased in volume, competently handled by the son. Mr. Donnelly is a strong Republican sympathizer, and he holds membership in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Fraternal Order of Eagles.