Raymond D. O’Connor, 83, passed away after a brief illness on July 6, 2026. He was born in Brooklyn, NY on April 13, 1943 to the late John and Julia O’Connor. Ray was a professor for many years at Holyoke Community College and Elms College. Teaching was his passion. He also was a lifelong NY Yankees fan and despite family objections, he enjoyed going to tag sales on the weekend. He often volunteered at the Parish Cupboard in West Springfield and was an animal lover, especially beagles. He leaves his loving wife Mary Anne (Babir) O’Connor, his sons; Dennis O’Connor of Washington, DC., Timothy O’Connor of Brooklyn, NY and Matthew O’Connor and his wife Olivia Wingate-O’Connor of London, England, his granddaughter Talia Wingate-O’Connor, his brother Walter Wallace and several nieces and nephews. Calling Hours will be held FRIDAY from 9:30 AM until 11:00 AM at the CURRAN-JONES FUNERAL HOME, 109 MAIN ST, WEST SPRINGFIELD. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 AM in Sacred Heart Church, 395 Chestnut St., Spfld. Burial will follow in St. Thomas Cemetery, Kings Hwy, W. Spfld. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in Ray’s name to the Parish Cupboard, 738 Main St., W. Spfld, MA 01089