Jeannie O’Connor

Jeannie O’Connor, 81, of Phoenix died peacefully December 11, 2017 after a long illness. I am writing this obituary while I am still alive and kicking! I was born to Fuzzy (John Elmer) and Elenora Ballein on October 19, 1936. I grew up on a farm in Danville, Illinois and went to University of Illinois where I met James (Doc) O’Connor. We moved to Phoenix in 1958 and were pleased to have Jimmy (Darlene), Johnny (Brigid), Timmy and Mike (Andrea). I have (as of this writing) six grandchildren; Christine, Brian, Kevin, Shannon, Danny and Reece. I also have a great granddaughter; MacKenna. I have had a great life and lots of fun. I love my “old, old” friends and the new ones I have met at the YMCA and bowling. I have been honored to have been a parishioner of St. Gregory Parish. Please send your remembrances to a charity of your choice or the “O’Connor Boys”.

Our Mother had a tremendous love for animals and in the beginning the O’Connor back yard looked more like a small petting zoo with ducks, chickens, rabbits, dogs and a goat or two. Later came endless trips to Rocky Point, San Diego, Mormon Lake, football, basketball and baseball games that her boys were involved with. And of course, the R.O.N.S. Club where she met countless friends, many of which she still has today. Always willing to lend a hand and volunteer whenever St. Gregory’s had a social event or picnic. She will be remembered most for her kind hand, always reaching out to anyone who was in need, along with being the host to some of the most epic parties her Central Phoenix neighborhood ever witnessed. She is survived by her four sons, 7 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. We would like to thank Pat and Judy O’Brien and Maureen Stroud for their constant love, companionship and support that they showed our mom. A Memorial Mass will be at St Gregory Catholic Church, 3424 N. 18th Ave, Phx, on Saturday, December 16 at Noon. Arrangements entrusted to Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home.