A funeral Mass was held on July 25 in St Virgil Church in Morris Plains for Father John H. O’Connor, who died on July 20. He was 88. He was a retired priest of the Paterson Diocese, who served in priestly ministry for 62 years.
Born in Morristown on Jan. 6, 1936, Father O’Connor attended the former St. Virgil School, the former Bayley-Ellard High School, and St. Louis University. He then graduated from Immaculate Conception Seminary and was ordained in 1962.
Father O’Connor served in many parishes in the diocese. He also held various positions in Catholic education, including teaching at the former Neuman Prep and Mount St. Mary’s College.
He formed many great friendships over the years, especially with his “crew” from grammar school and high school.
Father O’Connor will be remembered for his gentle demeanor, keen intellect, love of reading, and devotion to his faith and vocation.
He was predeceased by his parents, Cynthia and William; his brother, William; sister, Patricia O’Hagan; and niece, Rosemary O’Connor. Father O’Connor is survived by his brother, Robert; and sister-in-law, Joanna; 13 nieces and nephews; 28 great nieces and nephews; and 13 great-great nieces and nephews.
Please make memorial donations in Father O’Connor’s name to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.
