Ray O'Connor

In Loving Memory of Raymond Mark OConnor

June 29, 1957 – June 19, 2025

With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of Raymond Mark OConnor, who left this life on June 19, 2025, just shy of his 68th birthday. He passed peacefully, surrounded by those who loved him most.

Ray was born on June 29, 1957, and lived Taylor, Michigan for 50 years, and made his home in Paw Paw, Michigan for the remainder of his life. He built a life grounded in integrity, kindness, and devotion to his family. He was a beloved husband to Michelle, a proud father to Raymond J. OConnor (Stephanie) and Pamela OConnor, and a trusted friend to so many whose lives he quietly impacted.

Professionally, Ray was a gifted appliance repair man—truly a savant who could fix anything. He ran his own repair business for over a decade, earning a reputation throughout the community for being honest, dependable, and meticulous in his work. Even after stepping away from his business, his phone still rang with calls from loyal customers who remembered the man they could trust. He was a trusted employee, a senior technician who mentored many new technicians. Later in life, he found joy in being a part-time bus driver for Van Buren County, a role that reflected his steady and caring nature.

Ray had a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and creativity. He restored classic bikes, played guitar, remixed music, and spent countless hours working with wood and leather, always making something meaningful with his hands. His sense of humor, sincerity, and quiet strength brought comfort and laughter to every room he entered. His capacity for self-sacrifice and his unwavering love for his family were the true measures of his greatness.

A faithful Jehovah’s Witness, Ray’s belief in the resurrection gave him hope, and he cherished his relationship with Jehovah. His life was a testament to his faith, and he looked forward to the promise of a future free from pain, where he could once again be with those he loved.

Ray’s legacy lives on in the hearts of his wife, children, and all who were blessed to know him. He will be remembered not just for what he could fix, but for the lives he mended with his gentleness, humor, and steadfast love.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Ray’s life through acts of kindness or by learning more about the hope he held dear at www.jw.org.

We love you, Ray(Dad). You were truly one of a kind — and we look forward to seeing you again.