Judy O'Connor

Judy O’Connor, age 85, went home to her Lord on Monday, January 19, 2026. A resident of Mount Pleasant, WI, Judy was born in 1940 in Wausau, WI, to Florence and Raymond. She was the eldest of five children and shared 64 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Jim. Together, they built a loving family with four children: Chris, Mary, Ann, and Jon. They welcomed nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren into their family, each one adding happiness to their lives.

In her role as a mother, she poured her love and kindness into raising four children and helping them become happy, successful, hardworking and caring adults. Hearing about their lives and families gave her great joy.

Judy was known for her thoughtfulness, kindness, and unwavering faith. She found joy in lightening life’s challenges with humor and was deeply involved in her local Catholic communities at St. Edward's and later St. Paul the Apostle. Judy also served as an associate in the Dominican order at Siena Center in Racine, WI, exemplifying her commitment to faith and service.

As salutatorian of her graduating class at Newman Catholic High School, Judy demonstrated academic excellence early on. She continued her education at UW Parkside, reflecting her dedication to lifelong learning. Outside the home, Judy worked in various office assistant positions at church, directed religious education at St. Edwards Parish, and taught 7th and 8th grade religion at Holy Name School, helping to shape the spiritual lives of many young people.

Judy’s days were filled with faith and devotion. She never missed a birthday, holiday, or significant event in the lives of her family and friends. As an exceptional listener, she made everyone feel valued and important. Her compassionate and caring nature was evident to all who knew her.

In retirement, Judy led a chronic pain support group and published a monthly newsletter, offering comfort and guidance to others on their journeys. She enjoyed spending time with friends, especially during frequent gatherings with the Red Hat ladies. After Jim’s retirement, the couple cherished their years as snowbirds in Lake Havasu City, AZ, where they relished leisure and sunshine together.

Judy’s compassion reached beyond her immediate family, touching countless lives within her community. She was always ready to help, encourage, and share her warmth with those in need. Her enduring legacy of kindness and faith will inspire all who were privileged to know her for years to come.

A Memorial Mass celebrating Judy’s life will be held at 11:00 am, Tuesday January 27, 2026, at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 6400 Spring St., with Rev. Joseph Heit officiating. Relatives and friends are welcome to meet with the family for Visitation on Tuesday at 10:00 am until time of Mass. Memorials to Catholic Charities of Milwaukee have been suggested by the family.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Ascension All Saints for their loving and compassionate care.