It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of our cousin, Billy O'Connor. He was just five years older than me. Billy was a character and always fun to be around.

Billy was a great athlete, in both football and baseball. I remember Aunt Bobbie taking us to see him pitch in baseball games for Neptune Township High School. I believe he held MVP status.

A line from Bruce Springsteen's song "Glory Days" reminds me of the talent I saw in Billy on the mound.

"I had a friend, was a big baseball player

Back in high school

He could throw that speedball by you

Make you look like a fool, boy"

From what I understand, Billy was being watched by scouts of major league teams. I don't know the whole story, but needless to say, he remained unsigned. I could only imagine the career Billy would have secured in baseball.

Now he lives in peace with his family, Aunt Bobbie, Uncle Bill, and sister, Barbara Jean.

"Heroes get remembered, but legends never die" ~ Babe Ruth

Billy will always be my legend on a baseball mound.