Herbert M. O'Connor

Herbert Michael O’Connor, 77, passed away on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, after a valiant battle against cancer, in the presence of his loving family. He was born on March 3, 1948, in Manchester, NH, the son of William Lawrence O’Connor and Dorothy Olive (Smith) O’Connor. He was the adoring husband of Susan Yvonne (Grenier) O’Connor. They were married on August 11, 1979, in Manchester, NH.

Herb was a graduate of Manchester Central High School. Shortly after graduation, he joined the U.S. Navy to serve his country. During his service, he managed flight records for Navy pilots at the base in Pensacola, Florida, and was proud to serve as a member of the honor guard. One of the highlights of his military career was sailing around the world aboard the aircraft carrier USS Shangri-La. His service also took him to many parts of the world, but he especially enjoyed seeing the Asia-Pacific region.

After his honorable discharge, Herb enrolled at Hesser College, where he earned an Associate’s Degree in Business Science in 1980. Over the years, he built a diverse career, holding positions in sales, manufacturing, and security. He was also recognized for his talent behind the camera, receiving first place in the special “Family Celebration” category of The Union Leader-NH Sunday News/Kodak International Newspaper Snapshot Awards Contest for his photograph titled, “Michael, Mom and Tommy. ” The image, capturing the tender moment shortly after his second son was born, was published in the Sunday edition on July 5, 1987, and beautifully reflected his deep love for family. Eventually, he retired to focus on what mattered most to him, spending quality time with his beloved family and friends.

Herb cherished every moment with his family and took great pride in attending his children’s many sporting and extracurricular events. He had a lifelong enthusiasm for air shows, car shows, and boat shows, and especially loved trips to the beach and time spent at family gatherings. His family was the greatest joy in his life, especially his children and grandchildren, who brought him endless pride and happiness, while he taught them the true meaning of unconditional love and support.

He was predeceased by his sister, Susan Jane (O’Connor) Beeler, and her husband, Thomas Beeler. In addition to his devoted wife of 45 years, Susan, Herb is survived by his children, Michael and his wife Meg Finnegan, Thomas and his wife Heidi, and David; his grandchildren, Daniel and Jamie; and his brother, David William O’Connor, and his wife Mary. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, each of whom he loved deeply and remained closely connected to throughout his life.

Visitation will be from 5-7 pm on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Phaneuf Funeral Home on Hanover Street in Manchester. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 am on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Manchester. Interment will follow at the Pine Grove Cemetery in Manchester. Family and friends are invited to attend.