James "Jim" O'Connor

James "Jim" O'Connor, 86, of Havelock, North Carolina, passed away on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at the Crystal Coast Hospice House.

A funeral mass to honor James’ life will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, October 11th at Annunciation Catholic Church. Interment, with military honors, will follow at Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens.

Jim was born on December 2, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, to the late James and Sadie O'Connor. During his younger years, Jim answered the call of duty and proudly served in the United States Navy, demonstrating his unwavering loyalty to his nation. His time in the Navy included serving on the USS Intrepid and the USS Wasp (CV-18). With honor and distinction, he served his country until his honorable discharge in June of 1962. Following his naval service, he worked with the Forevers and Opt Records group.

Jim's career in the newspaper industry at Newsday allowed him to shine as a diligent and respected District Manager and Manager of contract delivery, where he was employed for 34 years. After leaving Newsday, Jim was the Lieutenant of Security at the Estee Lauder Corporation. Jim and his beloved wife Janet moved to North Carolina in 1995 where Jim worked as Circulation Manager for the Havelock Times.

Outside of his professional and military commitments, Jim found solace and strength in his faith. A devoted member of Annunciation Catholic Church, he found spiritual nourishment, cultivated meaningful connections, and happily served as the head usher. Additionally, Jim volunteered at Carolina East Health Systems bringing joy to others, and was a member of the American Legion, a testament to his unwavering support for his fellow veterans.

Jim's life can be defined by his love for his family, his church, and his country. His last wish was, "Please be kind to each other".

Jim is survived by his loving daughter, Patricia Marsh; grandchildren, Christopher Marsh (Laura) and Eric Marsh; great-grandson, John Marsh; and brother, Frederick Thomas O'Connor (Marge).

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janet, and daughter, Kelly.

As an expression of sympathy, flowers are welcome or memorial contributions may be made to Annunciation Catholic School, 246 E Main St, Havelock, NC 28532.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Cremations in Havelock, NC.