A DNA surname project for those with surname Gunnell, Gunnels, Gunnells We would like to see if there are different DNA groups within our surname. We would also like to be able to use the information to help families locate distant ancestors through sharing of information among members. MacLysaght: As an English name Gunnell has two distinct derivations, but in Ireland, especially in County Louth, it usually occurs as a synonym of MacGonigal.