Edward James O’Connor, 85, of Toms River, passed away Monday at the Newark Beth Israel Hospital surrounded by his loving family.
Edward, commonly known as Big Eddie, was the son of Cornelius and Dorothea O’Connor, nee Antioco. Ed leaves behind a sister, Dorothy Seaquist. Ed was born and raised in Red Hook, Brooklyn and graduated from Manual Training High School and then served honorably in the U.S. Army. Following his service, Ed joined the New York City Police Department in the 72nd Precinct and headquarters.
Edward would marry the love of his life, Rosemarie, nee Presti, and the two would settle in Bay Terrace, Staten Island to raise their young family of four sons before moving to New Jersey in 1997. Ed was an avid reader, diehard Mets fan and always halfway through some sort of home project. He loved telling jokes and stories, though he often could not finish because he was laughing too hard. He was always in for playing cards or a trip to Atlantic City for some action.
Edward is survived by his loving wife and his sons: Edward, Jr. (Ronni), Cory (Rose Ann), Glen (Brett Underhill), and Craig (Dina Fasanello). Ed was extremely proud of his eight grandchildren: Brianna, Nicole, Matt, Alex, Brandon, Andrew, Catherine and Hansen.
A visitation will be held Friday, October 11th from 4:00-8:00 PM at the Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 South Holmdel Road, Holmdel, NJ, 07733. Following the visitation Edward will be privately cremated.