Judith O'Connor

Judith O'Connor obituary, Grand Rapids, MI

Judith O'Connor

Judith O'Connor Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Memorial Alternatives on Oct. 20, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Judith (Judy) O'Connor (nee Philippus), age 72, passed away on October 12, 2025, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Born on January 3, 1953, in Grand Rapids, Judy was the daughter of William and Madeline Philippus. She grew up in the city she would always consider home, even as life took her to various places across the country, having lived in Las Vegas, California, Arizona, and Hawaii.
Judy graduated from Creston High School in Grand Rapids and went on to become a licensed cosmetologist. Her professional journey was marked by dedication and resilience, holding many jobs throughout her life. No matter where she lived or worked, Judy brought a strong work ethic and a determined spirit to everything she did.
She had a deep affection for babies and animals, finding joy and comfort in their presence. Judy loved to go swimming and really enjoyed attending free dinners at North Park Presbyterian Church with friends.
Judy was extremely outgoing and loved to meet and get to know people. Often, she was the life of the party. But she was always there for her friends and family. As her earthly family grew smaller, her friends became family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Madeline Philippus, and her brother, Fred Philippus.
Although she was a Catholic by faith, she did not want a memorial service. We pray that her memory brings comfort to those who knew and loved her.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Judith (Philippus) O'Connor, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memorial Alternatives

2432 Fuller Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505

Make a Donation
in Judith O'Connor's name

How to support Judith's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Judith O'Connor's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Judith O'Connor's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?