Edward James Connor lived on God’s green earth, sailed oceans far and wide, loved, and was loved deeply by friends and family for 90 blessed years. He passed swiftly and peacefully on Saturday, January 13, 2024.
Edward is survived by his wife of 59 years, Catherine “Marilyn” (Bates) Connor, three children, Maureen, Tricia, and Michael, and their respective spouses; Paul Wilson, Nicholas Biles, and Susan (Byer) Connor. Proud grandpa to seven grandchildren, Jake Connor †, Finneas Biles, Turner Wilson, Vincent Connor, Madeleine Biles, Griffin Wilson, and Elizabeth Connor - and Uncle Ed to many nieces and nephews. Edward was a respected, fun loving, and generous family man.
Born in Watertown, Massachusetts to Michael Vincent and Mary (Bishop) Connor in 1933, Edward is predeceased by his two older siblings Mary Imelda Connor and John V. Connor.
Edward sailed the world as an AB seaman and tankerman in the Merchant Marines and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. On the mainland, his career included extensive work in sales and transportation. Settling in Longmeadow, Ed made family his number one priority. “Times are good” was a frequent expression, demonstrating his ever-positive outlook on life and an appreciation of simple pleasures shared with those closest to him; games of cribbage, ice cream cones, dips in the Margaree, oatcake baking, and soaking up the sun wherever he found it.
A scholar of the world, Ed was well traveled, well read, and never stopped seeking knowledge. He found satisfaction in lively conversations, great pleasure in summer trips to Cape Breton, and contentment digging in his garden. A man of wisdom, guidance, selflessness, and imaginative whimsy, Ed will be dearly missed by all who shared in his journey. May he rest in peace and smile down on us.
Edward’s 11:30 a.m. funeral Mass will be Saturday, February 3 at St. Mary’s Church in Longmeadow, followed by a reception for friends and family in the parish hall. His burial at the MA Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, with military honors, will be private at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to the MA Audubon Society at www.MassAudubon.org, or to a charity of your choice.
Please visit www.TazziniFuneralHome.com for condolences.
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