Jo Nell McLemore was born in Dallas, Texas on May 30, 1942, one of three children of Fernie and Pauline McLemore (including Joe and Neva).
After graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1960, she began her studies at North Texas State University. Though a fifth-generation Texan, her journey took a new direction when she married Arthur Elton O’Connor on August 3, 1962, and relocated to Oklahoma to build their life together.
Her world centered around her family with the arrival of her three sons—twins Larry and Gary born on November 11, 1964, followed by Mark on June 20, 1966. She instilled a love of learning and an appreciation for the value of education in her home, regularly reading to her children during their early years. She later shared that love of learning with her community as a librarian in Collinsville, Oklahoma, and demonstrated her own dedication to lifelong growth by earning her LPN degree years later. Her steady support helped guide her sons toward successful careers as a pharmacist (Larry), an attorney (Gary), and an airline pilot (Mark).
A longtime member of Olive Baptist Church in Drumright, Oklahoma, she found deep comfort in reading, learning God's Word, and memorizing scripture. A dedicated prayer warrior, she faithfully lifted up her family, friends, and community with seemingly never ceasing prayer. She found simple joy in the wonder and beauty of God's creation, particularly through her love of flowers, birdwatching, and a heartfelt affection for animals.
She is survived by her children, Larry O’Connor, Gary O’Connor, and Mark O’Connor, and her grandson Zane Kai O’Connor (child of Alina Toader O’Connor and Mark O’Connor).
Visitation will be held at Grove Hill Funeral Home, 3920 Samuell Blvd, Dallas, TX 75228, on September 1, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
A Funeral Service will take place at Grove Hill Funeral Home, 3920 Samuell Blvd, Dallas, TX 75228, on September 2, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.
Interment will follow at Grove Hill Memorial Park.
