Obituary of Helen L. O'Connor

Helen L. O’Connor passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side on Sunday, June 30, 2024 at Brightview Senior Living in Randolph. She had shared 91 years of unconditional love, infectious laughter, and unforgettable memories with family and friends.

Born and raised in Pittston, PA to the late Gaetano and Mary Leonardi, she was one of four daughters to bless their household. She graduated from Pittston Area High School, Class of 1951, before continuing her education at Newark State College, now known as Kean University. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education. Helen was a smart woman with a dedication to family like no other. She had the unique position of being the mother and father to her adored children, and she thrived at it! Being a Mom was the occupation she was most passionate about. She also worked full time to support her family. Most recently, Helen was a Morris County Election Commissioner; prior to that, she had served several terms as a Councilwoman for Rockaway Township.

If you knew Helen, then you knew she had three facts about herself that remained true since the day she was born; she was a Catholic, she was a Democrat, and she was Italian. She was proud of all of those facts. Helen was an avid bridge player, as well as an avid reader; she especially loved reading the newspaper to stay up to date on all current events. She was a perennial student of life, always seeking out what she could learn next. She was truly remarkable. Although we are deeply saddened by her passing, we take comfort in knowing that she is now reunited in Heaven with her parents and sister, Lucille Maziarz.

Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her beloved family, her adored children, Helen O’Connor and her partner Joanne Annuzzi and Cliff O’Connor and his wife Lorraine; her cherished grandchildren, Maria O’Connor and Alexander O’Connor and his fiancé Felicia Apito; her devoted sisters, Grace Drexinger and Ginny Novak; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 6^th at 10 am at St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church, 90 Church Street, Rockaway. Burial will immediately follow at St. Cecilia Cemetery in Rockaway. All are welcome to come and celebrate her life.