Mary Elizabeth “Betty” O’Connor passed away on the evening of Aug. 12 at 92 years old. She grew up in Flushing, NY, with her parents, Bess and Edward Morris, and sister Eileen. After graduating from St. Andrews Elementary School, she won a full scholarship to Dominican Academy in Manhattan. It was there she met her soulmate from Regis, Gene O’Connor, at a Sweet 16 party.
Her academic prowess earned her valedictorian of both her high school class as well as her class at Marymount College in Tarrytown, NY. She was also voted the president of the student body and, later, the alumnae association.
Betty went on to marry Gene in 1948 upon his return from serving two years in WWII at Omaha Beach and at the Battle of the Bulge. In 1955, they moved to Manhasset, where they raised their six children. In 1965, once she received her master’s degree at C.W. Post College, Betty joined the Manhasset Public School system, teaching at Shelter Rock until her retirement in 1989. Betty continued her active involvement in the community through her close friendships and extensive volunteer work.
Over the years, she shared her boundless energy, most notably through her church at St. Mary’s. She was the vice president and board member of St. Mary’s Rosary Society, started the Bereavement Ministry and FOCUS Program, was a Eucharistic minister and worked in the Social Ministry Office. Betty’s efforts extended beyond that to St. Francis and North Shore hospitals as well as the American Legion Auxiliary and Girl Scouts.
Betty is survived by her six children, Gene, Jack, Maureen, Kathy, Michael, Eileen and their spouses, 18 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, so far (as Betty would be sure to include). We remember her with the endless love she showed those around her and will continue her legacy for years to come.
