Arthur D. O'Connor's Obituary
Arthur Doyle O’Connor was born in Marshall, Texas on September 7, 1952, and born into eternal life on Sunday, December 8, 2024. Growing up in Longview, Arthur attended St. Anthony’s Catholic School and Longview High School (Class of 1972). Arthur attended trade school and became a Journeyman Electrician. He married his high school sweetheart, Judy Blake O’Connor in 1975. Arthur and Judy made their home in East Mountain, and Arthur enjoyed developing his land and creating a beautiful homeplace they would enjoy together with their children and then grandchildren for the next 49 years.
Arthur was a humble man, and never sought attention or recognition, but cherished his role as husband and father, supporting his family’s interests wholeheartedly. He served as Scoutmaster for Scout Troop 193 for many years, and along with his family, earned Black Belts in Taekwondo. After their kids were grown, Arthur and Judy danced all over East Texas at Country and Western dances. His children brought him great joy, and he smiled when he shared updates on his grandchildren and the happy lives his children have built.
Arthur had a love of history, especially Texas history, and was very knowledgeable. Patience was a virtue he was blessed with, and he enjoyed the old ways. Arthur did not mind the time it took to do a job well whether it was changing a tire, loading a black powder rifle, smoking a brisket, or tanning a deer hide himself. Arthur would readily offer a seat and welcome family and friends to visit. Time spent camping and canoeing, practicing riflery, and firing his cannon are memories shared by many who knew and loved Arthur. He could often be found wearing overalls, building a nice fire, and watching Gunsmoke, or sitting on the porch swing. His humility, gentle wisdom, beaming smile, and welcoming spirit will be remembered always.
Left on Earth to cherish his memory are his wife of 49 years, Judy Blake O’Connor, his son and daughter-in-law, Patrick and Annie O’Connor, his daughter and son-in-law, Anna and Kevin Rickman, and his grandchildren - Natalie, Tanner, Anthony, Julia, Madelyn, and Katheryn. Arthur is also survived by his sisters, Charlene Wilson (Jim), and Sheila Friend, and brother, Chris O’Connor (Alicia), and many nieces and nephews and their children.
Waiting to greet him in heaven are Arthur’s parents, Richard and Betty O’Connor.
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