WEBSTER – James D. O’Connor, Sr., 83, died Wednesday, January 6, 2021 in Harrington Memorial Hospital, Southbridge, after a courageous battle with Covid 19.
He leaves 4 children, Anthony Barnardo and his wife Sheryl of Dudley, Timothy Barnardo and his wife Tammy of Wisconsin, Elizabeth O’Connor and her wife Lisa Bolshaw of Charlton, and James D. O’Connor, Jr. of Leicester; 6 grandchildren, Anthony, Amanda, Jennifer, James III, Victoria and Dalton; 8 great-grandchildren, Lilianna, Brayden, Isabella, Gavin, James IV, Quinn, Aurora and Harper; his former wife and companion of over 50 years, Elizabeth “Liz” Shier of Webster; a sister, Mary Butler of New York State; nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his sister Sarah.
He was born on November 5, 1937 in Queens, NY and raised there, the son of James and Sarah (Challenor) O’Connor. He lived in Webster since 1979.
Mr. O’Connor served in the Army National Guard as a private for 3 years in the 1950’s.
He was a carpet installer for the former Eddy’s Carpet in Worcester before retiring in 2000.
An outdoorsman, he enjoyed family outings, camping, swimming and fishing. He liked to watch old Westerns and Charles Bronson movies.
A celebration of his life will be held privately by the family. There are no calling hours. Donations in his name may be made to Veterans, Inc., 69 Grove Street, Worcester, MA 01605. Arrangements are under the direction of Sitkowski, Malboeuf & Hickey Funeral Home, 340 School Street.