Barbara A. O’Connor (nee Schwartz) age 90, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026 surrounded by her family.  Beloved wife of the late Jay O’Connor, she is survived by her five children; Kate O’Keefe (Robert), Tim O’Connor (Connie), Tara Nell (Chuck), John O’Connor (Anne) and Molly Boyle (Michael). A cherished grandmother known affectionately as “Dharma” she leaves behind twelve grandchildren, Connor & Margaret Nell; Katie, Kelly, Michael & Sean O’Connor; William, John & Adeline O’Connor and Jack, Matthew & Daniel Boyle, as well as five great grandchildren. She is further survived by her three younger brothers, sister-in laws and numerous nieces and nephews.

Born on August 11, 1935 in Fond du Lac, WI, Barbara was a graduate of St. Mary’s Springs Academy and St. Agnes School of Nursing where she qualified as a Registered Nurse later working in Labor and Delivery at St. Agnes Hospital.  She married Jay on December 26, 1959 and throughout their 59 years together, created a loving home for their children in Illinois, New Hampshire and ultimately Brookfield, WI where they lived happily for over 25 years. She later spent 16 years in Naples, FL and cherished their retirement years in the company of old and new friends.

A devoted mother and homemaker, Barbara was a talented cook who enjoyed her time in the kitchen and took pride in creating meals for her large family that were “tasty, nutritious and filling.”  She was the consummate hostess who effortlessly cooked and entertained at home, often serving recipes from her extensive cookbook collections. An avid bridge player, she was known for her razor sharp mind and competitive spirit. She loved to win, often beating friends and family at cards, board games and trivia. She was a passionate reader who enjoyed years of book club discussions and casual talks with family about books she enjoyed both past and present. Her daily life was also balanced by a steadfast belief in charitable works. She was a longtime active member of St. John Vianney Parish providing weekly food donations to local shelters, as well as countless hours volunteering where needed. A lifelong advocate of women and children, she also devoted her time to the Christ Child Society of Milwaukee providing layettes to newborns and clothing for local youth and the Philanthropic Educational Organization Sisterhood (PEO) in support of educational opportunities for women worldwide. Her calm strength, keen intellect and unwavering love of friends and family will be forever missed.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 11:30 am in the Chapel of St. Agnes Catholic Church, Naples, FL.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Christ Child Society of Milwaukee.