Leonard F. Connor Jr.

Leonard F. Connor Jr., 80, passed away Tuesday, October 11, 2005, at Halifax Medical Center. He was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., March 9, 1925, to Mildred (Beach) and Leonard Connor Sr. Mr. Connor graduated with a bachelor of science degree from Springfield (Mass.) College, majoring in education with a minor in physical education. He also attended the University of Dayton (Ohio) where he met his future wife and life partner, Ellen Louise Barrett. They were married August 28, 1947, and moved their family to this area in 1957 from Wantagh, N.Y. Mr. Connor was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, proudly serving submarine duty. Leonard was employed by the Volusia County School Board as a coach and teacher at Mainland Junior High School, Seabreeze High School, and 8th Grade at Holly Hill Middle School, retiring in 1986. His many accomplishments include being the Constable of Volusia County for three years. He was also the assistant superintendent of racing for the State of Florida in Miami, which included dog track, horse racing and Jai Alai. For 25 years, he was a member of the Central Florida High School Officials Association. He was also involved in Knights of Columbus-4th Degree Council, #5422, Holly Hill, Sub Vets of World War II, and Basil Pierce Chapter, Palatka, VFW Post #1590. He was past president of Happy Tickers, Ormond Beach, and he volunteered for AARP's 55 Alive as a driving instructor and Halifax Hospital's fitness center. He will live on in the memories of his wife of 58 years, Ellen; his two sons, James B. Connor, Brandon, and Lt. Col. Paul Connor, Orlando; and his two daughters, Nancy Gewand and Mary Beyea, both of Daytona Beach. He is further survived by eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Memorials in his name may be made to the American Heart Association, 9900 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33716-3801. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. today (Saturday, Oct. 15) at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 317 Mullally St., Daytona Beach. Share condolences with the family online at www.lohmanfuneralhomes.com.