Donald Francis O'Connor

Donald Francis O'Connor, 97, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas. Born on March 9, 1928, in Enfield, Connecticut, Don lived a long and meaningful life marked by devotion to family, service to his country, and pride in his work.

Don was a proud veteran of the United States Navy. He enlisted in March 1946 and served faithfully until his honorable discharge in December 1947. His time in the Navy instilled in him a deep sense of duty and discipline that would carry through every chapter of his life.

Following his military service, Don began his career at Bigelow Sanford Carpet Company in his hometown of Thompsonville/Enfield, Connecticut. After nearly a decade later, he joined American Airlines at Bradley Airport in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, a place he would call his professional home for the next 36 years. When he began at American, he worked on propeller planes; he left servicing modern jet planes for the worldwide leader in air travel.

Don was married for 62 years to his beloved wife, Lucille O'Connor (Menard). Together they built a life grounded in quiet love and unwavering support. Theirs was a partnership that endured through all of life's joys and challenges. Their bond was one of mutual respect and deep affection, evident to all who knew them.

Don and Lucille raised three sons who were the pride of their lives: Matthew O'Connor of Keller, Texas (wife Angela Wyatt), Michael O'Connor of Apex, North Carolina (wife Kristin Carvill), and Martin O'Connor of Apex, North Carolina. Don's legacy continues through his eight cherished grandchildren: Mackenzie (23), Gage (20), Shepard (17), Roarke (15), and Campbell (8) - lovingly known as the "Texas O'Connors" - and Matthew (15), Erin (12), and Jack (10) - the "North Carolina O'Connors." Don doted on each one with warmth and humor that made every moment with him memorable.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Alice O'Connor, and his brother John "Jack" O'Connor.

A devout Catholic throughout his life, Don spent many years worshiping at St. Mary's Parish in Longmeadow, Massachusetts. His faith was steady and sincere-a quiet but constant presence that guided him through life's seasons.

Don found joy in simple pleasures: cheering for New England sports teams with unwavering loyalty or gathering with family for annual reunions on Cape Cod. These traditions brought him great happiness and created lasting memories for those around him.

He was a gentleman-always. A proud Irishman with a quiet presence and a sharp wit that could catch you off guard in the best way. He didn't need many words to make you laugh or to let you know he loved you. We'll miss Don-his presence, his timing, the way he kept us laughing even at 97. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.