Joseph Carl O’Connor Sr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, father-in-law, brother-in-law and friend, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, after a very quick and heroic battle against cancer, at the age of 78.

Born on October 16, 1947, in Albany, NY, Joseph was one of eight children. He married his middle school sweetheart in 1967. He served in the army for 2 years, stationed in Germany. He was a member of the International Typographical Union (ITU), which merged with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters in 1986. He worked at different newspapers including the Times Union in NY, Wallstreet Journal in Palo Alto, CA, Arizona Republic & Gazette in Phoenix, AZ, Boston Harold in MA, and retired from the Boston Globe. Joe moved to Peabody, MA in 1981, where he built a life rooted in family and friendship.

Joseph was known for his fun-loving spirit and his natural ability to make people laugh. He truly enjoyed life and found his greatest happiness surrounded by family and friends. He cherished vacations and creating memories filled with joy, humor, and togetherness.

He loved playing cards, fishing, playing pool and spending time in his backyard, where many conversations, laughs, and special moments were shared. He never missed an opportunity to relax, tell stories, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. His warmth and humor brought people together, and his presence made every gathering brighter.

Joe was a proud and devoted family man. He was the husband of Dorothy O’Connor, his partner in life and love; a loving father to Kelly (O’Connor) Barrett and her husband Paul and Joseph (Joey) O’Connor Jr.; a cherished grandfather to Ryan and Patrick Barrett, brother to Paul O’Connor and wife Maggie, Arthur (Buddy) O’Connor, Barbara (O’Connor) Curran, Charles (Chucky) O’Connor and wife Karen, and Charlotte O’Connor, uncle to many nieces and nephews, and brother-in-law to Joan George and Donna Rogers. He was predeceased by his parents Arthur O’Connor and Alberta (Heck) O’Connor and siblings Zana Coates and Kevin O’Connor.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Adelaide’s Church, 708 Lowell Street, Peabody, Massachusetts, followed by a luncheon for family and friends.

Joseph’s kindness, humor, and unwavering love leave an enduring legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.

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