Lea R. O’Connor

1937 - 2025

Queensbury - Lea R. O'Connor, 87, of Queensbury, passed from this life unexpectedly on Sunday, March 23, 2025, after a short illness.

She was born July 24, 1937, in Binghamton, New York, to parents Stephen and Nellie "Johnny" Freas De Silvio. After seven years, she was joined by her sister Carol.

Lea was a 1955 graduate of Norwich Free Academy and a 1957 graduate of Vermont College in Montpelier, VT. It was during her college years that she met her future husband, Russ, a student at Norwich University. The two were married on April 12, 1958, at Sacred Heart Church in Norwich, CT. Lea and Russ made their home in Glens Falls, NY, residing on Coolidge Avenue for 66 cherished years.

Lea trained as a medical administrative assistant in college but found joy in retail, working at Coach and Suttons in her later years. She enjoyed traveling extensively throughout Europe with her friends, Sandra David and Judith Gillern and went on several vacations with her dear friend, Carol Whitney and family. For many winters, Lea and Russ spent their time in Florida, basking in the warm weather.

Known for her quiet demeanor and occasional feistiness, Lea had a special love for dining and socializing at local restaurants. Jack's Bistro was a favorite, where staff felt like extended family. In her earlier years, she enjoyed Dewar's Scotch and later developed a fondness for Johnny Walker Black.

Lea had a deep love for dachshunds, with her most recent companion Lexi passing away shortly before Lea. Tennis was also one of Lea's passions, but she also loved the rhythm of line dancing, the game of Bridge and the practice of Pilates.

Lea was predeceased by her parents, Stephen and Nellie "Johnny" Fras De Silvio, her in-laws Edward and Ella O'Connor, and her sister, Carol Zimmerman.

She is survived by her loving husband, Russell O'Connor; her sons, Brian O'Connor (Jacqueline O'Connor) of Moreau, NY, and Stephen O'Connor of Hudson Falls, NY; her granddaughters, Katelyn O'Connor of Medford, MA, and Leah O'Connor of Venice, FL; her nephew, Carson Zimmerman (Kristen Zimmerman and their son Edward) of Seattle Washington.; Kay McKenna (Thomas McKenna); and several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours for family and friends will be held on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at the Singleton Sullivan Potter Funeral Home, 407 Bay Road, Queensbury, from 3 – 5 pm.

Funeral services and burial will be held privately for the family.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to family and friends for their kindness to Russ during this difficult time. They would also like to thank the staff at Glens Falls Hospital, especially Carrie, for her overwhelming compassion and support.

Those who wish may make donations in Lea's memory to your local animal shelter or a charity of one's choice.

Lea will be remembered for her quiet strength, her unique spirit, and the lasting impact she made on those who knew her.