John Austin O’Malley

John Austin O'Malley, 87, of Bridgeport, CT, passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 12, 2025.
John was the loving husband of 65 years to the late Marilyn L O'Malley. He leaves behind his loyal dog, Bailey. He was the loving father to JoAnn Auddino (Gary), Marilyn Abbotts (Lenny), John O'Malley, and the late Maureen O'Malley. Proud Pop to Sean, Kaitlyn, and Ashley Auddino, Thomas and Michael Naples, Maureen and John O'Malley, and Bried Veteri. John is also the great-grandfather to 10 great-grandchildren: Declan, Bridget, Adrianna, Kylie, Ryder, Jack, Ruby, Gracie, Millie, and Oliver.
John leaves behind two siblings, Catherine Kratt and Patricia Clark.
John was born June 28, 1937, in Bronx, NY, to the late Patrick and Bridget O'Malley.
He was predeceased by one sibling Marie O'Malley.
John and Marilyn met on a blind date and eloped shortly thereafter. They were inseparable for the remainder of her life. John enjoyed summers in Cape Cod with his family as well as many other trips. As a devoted family man, John was the proud owner of Family Oil, where he built a legacy of hard work and dedication. He was an active member of The Knights of Columbus and served as the Commissioner of the Bridgeport Fire Department. John took immense pride in his Irish roots and was one of the lead organizers of the annual Bridgeport St. Patrick's Day Parade, a tradition he cherished deeply. Every year, he celebrated the day alongside his grandchildren, sharing the joy and spirit of the event. His love for his heritage, family, and his community was evident in everything he did.
Known for his quick wit and sharp mind, his children affectionately called him Sherlock, while to his grandchildren, he was simply Pop. He had a playful spirit, often sneaking bites of holiday meals before they were ready - just to "make sure it was safe for us to eat" and he was notorious for hogging the salt shaker at the dinner table.
John will be forever missed by his family, who loved him dearly and will carry him with them every day.
Visitation will be held on Friday, February 14th, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Parente Funeral Home, located at 1209 Post Road, Fairfield Center. The services will continue at Saint Patrick's Catholic Church in Bridgeport at 11:30 AM, followed by a procession to Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Trumbull after the funeral mass. For travel directions or to sign John's online guest register, please visit www.ParenteFuneralHome.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John, please visit our floral store.