Photo courtesy of Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory - Ballwin
Ballwin, Missouri
Jul 24, 1952 – Oct 8, 2024
O'Connor, Joseph Thomas "Tom", a lifelong resident of St. Louis and devout family man, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, October 8th, 2024, at the age of 72. Known for his warm heart, strong work ethic, and unwavering dedication to his family and church, Tom leaves behind a legacy of kindness and integrity.
Born on July 24, 1952, Tom grew up in St. Louis Hills, the son of Margaret (Burns) O’Connor and Joseph Andrew O’Connor. He graduated from St. Louis University High School in 1970, earned a bachelor’s degree in from St. Louis University in 1974 and an MBA from Southern Illinois University.
Tom and his wife of 49 years, Mary (Diliberto) O’Connor, married in 1975. Tom served as a first lieutenant in the United States Air Force. Tom loved airplanes and spent most of his career working in aerospace at Midcoast Aviation and was an owner of Valley Technologies Inc. He then went on to spend the last fifteen years of his career at Edward Jones and retired on September 30, 2024.
Tom was an active member of his church and community, attending men’s groups and Bible studies. His generosity and compassion were felt by everyone who knew him and no one was a stranger to Tom. He always had a story to tell and could talk to anyone. On most weekends you could find Tom wearing a wild Hawaiian shirt, working outside in the yard, or grilling and enjoying time by the pool. He was a lover of food and loved to cook for his family.
Tom was a devoted husband, father and friend and is survived by his wife Mary, and three children, Caitlin (Scott), Brendan (Amanda), and Kevin, his two grandchildren, Anabelle and Locklan, whom he adored, and his sister-in-law, nieces, and cousins. He found immense joy in spending time with his grandchildren and passing on family traditions. Christmas was his favorite holiday and he loved listening to Christmas music, sometimes starting in September, and watching Christmas movies.
Tom will be remembered for his gentle, kind spirit, love of family, and his profound faith in God. He will be deeply missed and left this world too soon.
Services: Funeral service at the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Monday, October 14, 10:00 a.m. Interment Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Tom’s name to Wounded Warrior Project. Visitation Sunday, October 13, 3:00 - 8:00 p.m. Friends may sign the family’s on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.
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I’m saddened Tom has passed. He was a wonderful inspiration, kind and generous man who loved life. We will truly miss him. John and Cecilia Rogers
John Rogers
November 12, 2024 | Florissant, MO | Coworker
I met Tom at Edward Jones. We worked together for over two years. He was so knowledgeable and friendly. He helped me a number of times with difficult calls and trained me using that huge body of knowledge he had. We also worked together on a few committees. We often spoke of retirement plans for ourselves and our own similar interests. I live in Florida, so we talked about weather and the beach here in Florida, since he and family visited Florida many times. My deepest sympathy goes...
Cindy Llewellyn
October 30, 2024 | Edgewater, FL | Coworker
Mary and family - I’m so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. Although it’s been years since seeing you all, there were fond memories of our family spending time with your family during our Westminster years. Much love and prayers.
Mary Verity - Jauer
October 24, 2024 | St Louis, MO | Acquaintance
I worked with Tom at Edward Jones. He was always so friendly and funny. He was so intelligent so I learned something new every time that we chatted. My deepest condolences to all who loved him.
Sheila Myrum
October 22, 2024 | Milbank, SD | Coworker
Tom I will miss you dearly my brother but your reward for a service to the Lord is now yours as you dwell in eternity with the lord.
Nigel Darvell
October 15, 2024 | Saint Louis, MO | Friend
Tom, I forgot to tell the Hawaii story...you will be missed my friend...
dennis allen
October 15, 2024 | St. Louis, MO | Friend
Tom was very pleasant and affable. Always greeted me with a smile and handshake at our reunions and annual Christmas party at Failoni's. He will be missed by all of his fellow U. High classmates of 1970. Rest in peace. Jim and Dana Whalen
james whalen
October 14, 2024 | CHESTERFIELD, MO | Friend
Tom we will miss you! May you rest in peace
Adriano & Matteo Giusto
October 14, 2024 | Woodbridge, ON | Friend
While it has been a while since we got together, time with Tom and Mary was always memorable, all the way back to the trip to Barbados with them long ago. It was a real shock to hear of Tom's quick demise. I will always remember you.
John Straub
October 13, 2024 | Creve Coeur, MO | Friend
