John R. O’Leary, Sr., 71, of Webster, passed away peacefully Wednesday, October 22nd in his home. He leaves his wife of 46 years, Nancy J. (Racicot) O’Leary; a son, John R. O’Leary, Jr. and his wife Kirsten of Franklin; three daughters, Kathleen M. Pepin and her husband Scott of Douglas, Anne M. O’Leary-Dauksz and her husband James of Clermont, FL, and Meghan E. Healy and her husband Matthew of Charlton; two sisters, Mary F. O’Shea of Mashpee and Helen F. Dunn of Falmouth; ten grandchildren; nephews and nieces; and his loyal dog Winnie. He was predeceased by a brother and sister, Thomas F. O’Leary, Jr. and Barbara A. O’Leary.
He was born in Worcester, the son of Thomas F. and Catherine (Brierly) O’Leary and graduated from St. Stephen’s High School, received his Associates degree from Quinsigamond Community College, his bachelor’s degree from Clark University, and his masters degree in education from Anna Maria College. Mr. O’Leary was a longtime teacher. He was a member of St. Louis Church and was a great supporter of Native American culture in Ledyard, CT, but his family was the most important aspect of his life.
The funeral is Monday, October 27th from O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, Worcester, with a Mass at 11:00 A.M. in St. Stephen’s Church, 357 Grafton Street, Worcester. Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery, Worcester. Calling hours are from 4:00 until 7:00 P.M. Sunday, October 26th in the funeral home. Contributions in his memory may be made to VNA Care Network and Hospice, 120 Thomas Street, Worcester, MA 01608 or Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 East Ohio Street, Chicago, IL 60611.