Mr. Robert James Connor

Robert James “Bob” Connor passed away on August 8, 2026, at the age of 82. A devoted husband, attorney, educator, catechist, mentor, and friend, Bob lived a life defined by service to others, generosity of spirit, and unwavering faith.

Born in Cleburne, Texas, Bob spent most of his life in Houston, where he became known for his commitment to justice, education, and community service. Early in his career, he worked for Congressman Robert “Bob” Eckhardt, an experience that fostered his lifelong passion for civic engagement and social justice. He later established Robert J. Connor, P.C. and R.J. Connor, Inc., helping countless individuals navigate legal and immigration matters with compassion and integrity. Over the years, he assisted hundreds of immigrants in their journey toward residency and citizenship, always treating clients as friends and neighbors.

Bob believed deeply in the responsibilities of citizenship and democracy. That belief led him to the classroom, where he served as a professor of government at Lone Star College. His students consistently remembered him not only for his knowledge, but also for his kindness, humor, patience, and genuine concern for their success. Many described him as one of the most caring and accessible professors they had ever known.

In 1992, Bob entered the Catholic Church at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Houston. His faith quickly became the cornerstone of his life. He served in numerous leadership roles within the parish and devoted more than two decades to teaching sixth-grade religious education. Known for his creativity and enthusiasm, he transformed ordinary lessons into memorable experiences that inspired generations of young people in their faith.

Bob also had a passion for photography, capturing the special moments of family, friends, parish events, and community gatherings. He found beauty in everyday life and delighted in sharing it with others. He loved nature, classical music, opera, and the arts, and together with his beloved wife Joan, cared deeply for animals, especially the cats they rescued and adopted over the years.

Bob is survived by his wife of more than fifty years, Joan Brezik Connor, whom he affectionately called “Frog”; his sister Barbara; his niece Cynthia; and an extended family of friends, students, parishioners, colleagues, and former clients whose lives were enriched by his kindness and guidance.

Bob’s legacy lives on in the countless people he taught, encouraged, mentored, and loved. He will be remembered for his generous heart, joyful spirit, unwavering faith, and extraordinary ability to make everyone feel valued and welcome.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Matthew 25:23

Visitation will be held at Waltrip Funeral Directors, 1415 Campbell Road, Houston, TX 77055, on August 16, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, with a Rosary Service at Waltrip Funeral Directors, 1415 Campbell Road, Houston, TX 77055, on August 16, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 6:30 pm.

A Funeral Mass will be held at All Saints Catholic Church, 215 E 10th St, Houston, TX 77008, on August 17, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a Committal Service at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery, 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77077, on August 17, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm.

***PLEASE NOTE THAT THE VISITATION AND ROSARY WILL BE HELD AT WALTRIP FUNERAL DIRECTORS IN SPRING BRANCH***