Jerome Thomas O'Connor

Jerome “Jerry” Thomas O’Connor passed away on January 2, 2026 at the age of 75. Born on March 14, 1950 in Amityville, New York to Francis O’Connor and Cornelia Senif, Jerry entered the world 90 minutes before his twin brother, Terrance “Terry” O’Connor—an important detail he made sure everyone knew (older and wiser, he’d say, with a grin). Jerry grew up in Ossining, New York and graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1972, remaining a die-hard Fighting Irish fan for life. Growing up, Jerry and Terry were simply known as “the twins,” and they carried that bond throughout their lives—dynamic, fun, and endlessly personable, sharing birthday parties, a gift for storytelling, and even the same jokes, delivered with impeccable timing every single time.

Jerry was truly an American Airlines icon in the Raleigh area. He dedicated many years of service to the company, including time as a Manager in Reservations and as General Manager overseeing airport operations at RDU. His leadership, commitment, and fun-loving spirit left a lasting impact on both the team and airport colleagues. Jerry was also an aviation historian and a gifted storyteller, with an incredible ability to teach and connect lessons from his earlier years at the New York, LAX, and Hawaiian airports to the evolving challenges of the industry.

During his time at American Airlines, Jerry served as chairman of the “Family Fund,” helping employees and their families in times of need. Beyond his professional contributions, Jerry gave generously of his time and talents to the community. He was a strong supporter of the Wake County School System in North Carolina, serving as a Regional Coordinator to develop School/Business Alliances at each high school in Wake County. He was also a founding member of the business Board of Advisors for the Academy of Information Technology at Apex High School and co-chair of the School to Career Leadership Team, which brings together senior school system leaders, business leaders, community colleges, chambers of commerce, and other stakeholders to strengthen educational opportunities.

But the role Jerry cherished most was being a father.

He adored his three children until his last breath—showing up in the thousand steady ways that build a childhood and a life: packing lunches, driving to school, coaching soccer teams, serving as the “TSA judge and timer” at swim meets, checking homework, making dinner (the canned green beans and Sloppy Joes may not be missed), fixing what was broken, calming tears, and sending newspaper clippings about things he thought might matter. He was the kind of father who tucked a couple of $20 bills into a note when his kids were in college—not because it was flashy, but because it was helpful, and because it was love.

That kindness showed up in the way he wrote, too. Jerry sent daily musings and notes of inspiration to those he loved, often reflecting his belief in what really matters. One of his most common reminders was:

“I truly believe that our society spends too much time focusing on money and possessions, rather than the simple things in life. A smile and a simple ‘thank You’ or ‘can I help You’… go a long way…”

Jerry is survived by his three children, Kristen Lee O’Connor, Jennifer Anne O’Connor (James Rogers), and Bryan William O’Connor (Weston O’Connor); and by 6 siblings Chris Joynes, Frank O’Connor (Diane O’Connor), Terrance “Terry” O’Connor (Nancy O’Connor), Kathleen Brigham (Mike Brigham), Denis O’Connor (Janet O’Connor), and Maryann O’Connor, and predeceased by his brother, Kevin O’Connor (Donna O’Connor). He is also survived by 18 nieces and nephews and their children.

A service will be held in Raleigh, NC at the Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 2:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jerry’s memory to the ALS Association (https://www.als.org), to help others facing ALS and to bring us closer to a cure.

Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's Street, Raleigh is serving the O'Connor Family.