Florence Helen O'Connor's Obituary
Florence Helen O’Connor (née Youngflesh) passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Monday, August 25, 2025, just 15 days shy of her 101st birthday. Born in West Philadelphia to Joseph Felix and Helen Bridget Youngflesh, Florence lived a long and remarkable life rooted in faith, family, and hard work. She was a beloved resident of both Marlton and Cape May, New Jersey.
Affectionately known as Floss, she was the devoted wife of the late John O’Connor, with whom she shared 52 years of marriage until his passing in 2008.
Florence was the cherished mother of Maureen (Paul) Blom; the adored “Grammy” of Christine (Michael) Sands and Sean (Samara) Blom; and the proud great-grandmother of Erin and Julia Sands, and Nash, Rory, and Shay Blom. She rarely missed a football, volleyball, field hockey, baseball, or softball game, regatta, rugby match, dance recital, or school play — faithfully cheering on every activity her daughter, son-in-law, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren pursued. Her absence leaves an immeasurable void in our hearts, and our family gatherings will never feel the same without her love and humor.
She was predeceased by her siblings, Madelyn (William) Jones, Joseph (Patricia) Youngflesh, and Thomas (Dolores) Youngflesh, along with 17 O’Connor brothers- and sisters-in-law. She is survived by 30 loving nieces and nephews.
Florence treasured her lifelong friendships, many formed during her school years at Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic Grammar School and as a member of the Class of 1942 at West Philadelphia Catholic Girls High School. Following graduation, she enjoyed a 43-year career with the Pennsylvania Railroad/Conrail, where she worked as a keypunch operator in the accounting department.
Her deep faith guided her throughout her life. She was a founding member of the St. Stephen’s Altar and Rosary Society, serving on its board for many years. She was also active in the Women’s Auxiliary of St. Thomas More High School Alumni, where she was honored for her longtime dedication in helping her husband organize the annual Memorial Mass and Breakfast.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Friday, September 5, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Givnish of Marlton, 398 East Main Street, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at St. Joan of Arc Church, Marlton.
Entombment will follow at Locustwood Cemetery, Route 70, Cherry Hill, NJ.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made in Memory of Florence Youngflesh O'Connor to St. Joan of Arc School Fund at St. Joan of Arc School or to West Catholic Give Now - West Catholic High School
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