Obituary of Patricia E. O'Connor

Obituary of Patricia Eleanor O’Connor

May 25^th, 1940 – January 13, 2024

Patricia Eleanor O’Connor, 83 of Maplewood, NJ passed away peacefully on January 13^th with her family by her side. Pat is survived by her husband John, children John Jr., Daniel (Kenin), Michael, and her granddaughter Molly. She is also survived by her siblings Sally Schneider, James Hyer, Daniel Hyer (Christine), and her many beloved nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, her siblings: Sheila, Joan, Robert, Richard, Michael, Mark, William, and her nephew William Schneider.

Patricia was born to James and Mary Hyer and spent her childhood in Athens, NY along the Hudson River as well as summers at “Sugarbush” their home in Onteora Park, NY.  Patricia’s childhood with her parents and ten siblings was filled with adventure and laughter and many great memories were made.

After graduating from St. Patrick’s Academy in Catskill, she attended and then graduated from St. Elizabeth’s College in Convent Station, N.J. with a degree in Education. Patricia spent over 20 years teaching as well as being a homemaker and stay-at-home mom for many years. Patricia’s greatest accomplishment was raising her three sons with her husband John. Her utmost joy was being an active and doting grandmother to Molly and spending time with her beloved daughter-in-law Kenin.

In 1957 she met John P. O’Connor, and they were married at St. Patrick’s Church in Athens, NY. In 1967.  The couple then moved to New Jersey to follow John’s career at Chubb and Son in New York City. They shared 56 years of marriage and raised their family in Maplewood, NJ where they lived for 52 years.

Pat brought laughter, joy, and an easygoing manner to everyone she met. She will especially be remembered for her sense of humor, kindness, and never her wavering positive outlook on life. She was always available for advice and as a shoulder to lean on, especially to her boys.

There will be a private family burial. In the spring of 2024, there will be a celebration of Patricia’s life, more details will follow at a later date.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the management and staff at Winchester Gardens in Maplewood, NJ, and the staff at St. Barnabas Hospital in Livingston, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to DonorsChoose or another charity that supports children.