1926
2019
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Grey Shepard
April 18, 2021
John was my parents’ best friend and my “uncle” always. He witnessed their (Jean and Dick Shepard) wedding. He taught me how to shave. He spent hours drilling me on spelling homework. He always accepted me. I can hear his laugh and see how his eyes shown and how his genuine love of people was infectious. I’ve never known a kinder person. Nor someone who loved his work, his art, so much. John was a blessing. [email protected]
Marjorie Wilde
June 13, 2020
John used to quote a line from O'Casey's "Juno and the Paycock," when Juno despairs, "The whole worls in a state of chassis." Given what's happening globally today, and knowing how John detested what he always called "unpleasantless", there's no question in my mind that he would hate being here now, and is grateful to be peaceful and happy where he is now. I miss my virtual big brother more than I can ever say, and I will love him dearly always.
August 9, 2019
August 9,2019
A piece of my heart is with John, with whom I talked about 3 times a week, me in Maryland, John in N. Hollywood. He was the big brother I never had, Godfather to our daughter, Julie, and the last connection to anyone who knew me when I was 21. We met on West 16th St in the early '50's, and almost instantly became soulmates. He was responsible for my meeting Don, and the three of us were connected all of our lives. I loved him so dearly,and,Joe,I was talking to him the night he left. He adored his family, and you in particular.I would love to talk with you. My email: [email protected] share your grief...my life won't be the same without him.
Marjorie Wilde
Paul Pape
August 8, 2019
When I first arrived in Los Angeles in 1978, I I met John, who lived in the same building as I. We became friends. I was a hungry young performer just getting started and he was already an established journeyman character actor that I learned a lot from. After we both had moved out and went our separate ways, we stayed in touch for many years but gradually lost touch. I am very sorry to hear of his passing and especially regretful that I didn't have the chance to say goodbye. I wish I could have given him my thanks for his friendship and support. What a kind man he was. He will be missed but remembered for his generosity and wonderful spirit.
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
lisa dungan
June 21, 2019
will miss my wonderful poker friend!

John Oleary and Brian Dennehy Mother's Day 2018
June 21, 2019
John, of course I will always wish I'd spent more time with you than I did. You were a member of our family. You will always be missed. You were a beacon of kindness, compassion, joviality and fellowship. My heart breaks as you take your long journey.
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more