Joseph Matthew O'Connor

Joseph (Joe) Matthew O’Connor, 91, passed away peacefully with his wife by his side on November 16, 2025. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Joe lived a long, accomplished, and deeply meaningful life marked by devotion to family, service to his country, and a passion for learning and aviation. He will be fondly remembered for his quick wit and endearing sense of humor.

Joe was the beloved husband of Lindia Abel O’Connor for the past 27 years, who faithfully remained by his side throughout their life together. He was preceded in death by his mother Anna Weidler O’Connor, father Joseph O’Connor, and daughter Lisa O’Connor Occhioni.

He is survived by his children: Joseph Matthew O’Connor, Jr.; Christine O’Connor Booth (Chip); and three stepchildren: Virginia Frantz (Todd); Pamela Hartley Quigley (Scott); and Steven Hartley, Jr. (Shana). He is also remembered with love by his grandchildren: Arianna Occhioni, Jordan O’Connor, Emily Fowler (Ryan), Tyler Frantz, and Jacob Hartley; and his great-grandchildren: Mario Reyes, Millie Fowler, and Wyatt Fowler.

Joe also held a close bond with extended family member Lydia Johanna Cafarelli.

A dedicated scholar, Joe attended Drexel University (formerly Drexel Institute of Technology), where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, a Master of Science in Aeronautical Engineering, and a Master of Business Administration. He was a proud member of the Blue Key National Honor Fraternity.

Joe honorably served as a Corporal in the United States Army during the Korean War as a translator and was fluent in five languages. He carried out his military service with intelligence, discipline, and pride.

His lifelong passion for aviation led him to obtain his commercial pilot’s license, and he found joy in flying light aircraft whenever he could. He enjoyed this hobby with his son. Joe was a successful CEO and business owner for many years and remained committed to his work until his retirement in 2013, when he and Lindia relocated from Lilburn, Georgia to The Villages, Florida. Together they enjoyed an active and fulfilling retirement life. Joe enjoyed playing golf with his wife, playing cards with friends, and collecting coins. He and Lindia were avid University of Kentucky fans alongside their best friends and family members Allen and Carol Abel. They watched every game and traveled to out-of-state tournaments together for decades.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the many compassionate caregivers who contributed to Joe’s care over the last three years. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.