Gerald Patrick O’Connor, 87, of Chester, Ill., died Oct. 22, 2024, in St. Louis. Mr. O’Connor was a 1955 graduate of Chester High School where he was an athlete and earned scholarships to the University of Illinois and Southeast Missouri State University. From 1960 to 1974, he coached football at Fox High School, leading the 1966 team to a perfect 9-0 record. In addition to coaching, Mr. O’Connor served as a teacher, athletic director, principal and assistant superintendent. In 2005, he was inducted into the Fox High School Sports Hall of Fame. He enjoyed playing golf and spending time with his family. Born May 28, 1937, in Chester, Ill., he was the son of the late Lena (Runge) and James Patrick O’Connor.
He was preceded in death by his wife: Judith O’Connor.
He is survived by four children: Mike O’Connor, Anne (Greg) Symes, Joan (Greg) Welsh and Christine (Tony) Simokaitis; and 12 grandchildren: Stuart, Emily, Ellie, Sarah, Garett, Maureen, Collin, Kaite, Bella, Anthony, Sami and Max.
Visitation is scheduled from 10 a.m. until services at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at John L. Ziegenhein & Sons South County Chapel, 4830 Lemay Ferry Road, in St. Louis. Memorials may be made to Fox High School for a new “Jerry O’Connor Athletic Field” as well as the Fox High School Scholarship Fund, sent to the attention of Joe Salsman, Fox High School, 751 Jeffco Blvd., Arnold, 63010. Arrangements are under the direction of John L. Ziegenhein and Sons Funeral Home.