Therese O'Connor

Died peacefully surrounded by loved ones at Isaiah House on November 1, 2018 at 61 years old. She was a loving mother to Aidan Rich of Philadelphia, PA and Clara Kikue O’Connor of Rochester, NY, and co-parented by Kenneth Rich. In addition to her children, Therese was the compassionate heart of a large, close-knit family including her parents, Therese S. O’Connor and the late James J. O’Connor; three sisters, Mary (Charlie King), Pat (Robert O’Connell), and Sarah (Anibal Roa); four brothers, Mike (Rena), Stephen (Ellen), Paul (Christina Osburn), and Ed (Patty); and 11 nieces and nephews.

Therese was a dedicated social worker at the Lipson Cancer Center for more than 30 years. In addition to her regular workload, Therese volunteered and organized many community cancer-related events and activities, including ones for Gilda’s Club, American Cancer Society, Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester, and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Therese had a beautiful voice and loved singing with the Rochester Women’s Community Chorus. She also was an active member of PFLAG.

Therese was born in Philadelphia, PA and grew up in Poughkeepsie, NY. She moved to Rochester, NY after attending SUNY Geneseo and SUNY Brockport. She looked forward to summer when her family vacationed together in Rehoboth Beach, DE. She was a fantastic cook and was often in charge of the kitchen during family gatherings. She did not like to bake, but made family favorite cookies every Christmas.

Friends may call Sunday, November 4, from 2-5 PM at the funeral home (495 N. Winton Rd.).  Therese's Funeral Service and Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Therese’s name to Isaiah House, 71 Prince St., Rochester, 14605 and the Lucy Leone Fund c/o the Lipson Cancer Center, 100 Kings Highway S., Suite 2300, Rochester, NY  14617.  

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