John E O'Connor

John E. O'Connor, PhD, 82, of Bloomfield, NJ passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025. John is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Mary O'Connor (nee Bruno), two children, and many close friends. John was predeceased by his parents, William and Florence O'Connor.

John received his doctorate from the Graduate Center of City University of New York. He was a distinguished Professor of History at NJIT and authored and edited many books in his field, including William Paterson, Lawyer & Statesman, a respected biography of a Founding Father and New Jerseyan.

He was the co-founder and editor of the academic journal Film & History, which since his retirement has been published by the University of Wisconsin.

John's passion for local history fueled his mission to protect and preserve Oakeside, Bloomfield's Cultural Center, where he also served as the President of its Board of Trustees for many years.

He is the namesake of the John E. O'Connor Award, given every year by the American Historical Association to a film or documentary that teaches about history.

John also demonstrated his passion for his Irish-American heritage in many ways, including as a member of the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh in West Orange, NJ.

He will be missed by many for his warmth, affability and good humor.

In lieu of flowers please donate in John's memory to the Alzheimer's Association: https://www.alz.org/.