Dr. Randolph P. O’Connor, Jr.

Augusta, GA — Dr. Randolph P. O’Connor, Jr., entered into rest on January 15, 2026, at the age of 88. He was the beloved husband of the late Sudie Lea O’Connor.

Born June 19, 1937, in Lexington, Virginia, he was the first child of Randolph P. O’Connor, Sr., and Eleanor J. O’Connor. He spent his early years in Virginia before moving with his family to Daphne, Alabama, where he graduated from Fairhope High School. He attended both college and dental school at the University of Alabama, graduating in 1963.

While in dental school, he married Sudie Lea McWhite in 1959. They shared more than 48 years of marriage until her passing in 2018.

Following graduation, Dr. O’Connor entered the United States Army, serving honorably for 20 years. His distinguished military career included service in Vietnam and duty stations at Fort Polk, Louisiana; Fort Benning, Georgia—where he earned his specialty degree in Prosthodontics and achieved board certification; and Fort McPherson in Atlanta, Georgia, where he served as Director of Regional Dental Activity (Laboratory). He later supervised the relocation of the Activity to Fort Gordon in Augusta, Georgia, and retired as a Colonel in 1983. His awards included the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, Army Commendation Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and the Legion of Merit.

After retiring from the Army, Dr. O’Connor joined the Medical College of Georgia, serving as Professor and Director of the Fixed Prosthodontic Laboratory until his retirement in 1997. He published numerous abstracts and articles in professional journals and was a member of the American Dental Association and the American College of Prosthodontists.

He enjoyed golf and sailing and was an avid dog lover, especially devoted to his cherished Blanche.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his two sons, Patrick (Eileen) and Preston (Kateri); three grandchildren, Erin (Brent), Kaitlyn (Philip), and Margaret; his great-granddaughter, Josephine; and his sister, Pam (Jerre).

A funeral service will be held Monday, March 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of the Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Augusta, Georgia, with the Reverend Dr. Joe Bowden officiating. A gathering in the parish hall will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the donor’s chosen endowment.

Arrangements are entrusted to Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, Augusta, Georgia.