Bernardine O'Connor

Bernardine A. "Beryl" Washeleski O'Connor, 95, passed away on August 31, 2026 at her home in Verona.

Born and raised in Simpson, PA, Beryl graduated from Harrison High School and earned a LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) degree from St. Michael's Medical Center in Newark, NJ and worked as such for them for 19 years, retiring in 1993. After high school graduation she moved to Newark, where she lived for 21 years and then moved to Verona in 1978, where she has lived ever since.

She was an active member of Our Lady of the Lake Church in the Welcome, Bethany and Prayer Shawl ministeries. She also served as President and member of the Verona Senior Citizens Club. Active in Parents groups of serving as President of Our Lady of Good Council high school, Essex Catholic high school, St. Michael's church and grammar school. Ran the Knight of Columbus annual picnic for special citizens. Volunteering at Verona high school library.

Beryl was predeceased by her husband of 43 years, Gerard J. O'Connor, Sr.; son, Gerard J. O'Connor, Jr.; and her brother, Irwin Washeleski.

She is survived by her children, Carolann Pontes (John), Edward O'Connor (Donna), Thomas O'Connor (Melissa), Kathleen Riley (Timothy), James O'Connor (Jeanette) and John O'Connor (Candace); grandchildren, Deirdre Pontes, Joseph & Marlo Pontes, Anthony & Sara O'Connor, Christine & Grant Greenberg , Laura & Joseph Fornabaio, Edward O'Connor, Jr., Molly & Matthew Heitzer, Jimmy O'Connor, Catlyn & Charles Bowen, Thomas & Samantha O'Connor, Jr., Elisabeth & Stefan Bebenov and Colleen O'Connor; and great-grandchildren, twins, Isabella & Athena Pontes, Charlotte Bowen, Frank and Bruce Fornabaio, Margo, Luke, Hailey and Lily Heitzer, Ryan and Ellie O'Connor, Chase Greenberg and "Baby Bebenov" on-the-way. She is also survived by her brother, Edward Washeleski and his wife, Dolores as well as many nieces and nephews.

Visiting will be held on Friday, September 4, 2026 from 4:00 to 7:00 pm in the Prout Funeral Home, 370 Bloomfield Avenue, Verona, NJ 07044. A Funeral Mass will be offered on Saturday, September 5 at 10:00 am in Our Lady of the Lake Church,
28 Lakeside Avenue, Verona. Church parking is in the rear of the church and can be accessed from Montrose Avenue. Interment in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, East Hanover will follow immediately.

In lieu of flowers donations in Beryl's memory to Verona PBA Local 72, P. O. Box 72, Verona, NJ 07044 would be greatly appreciated.

Condolences, memories and photos may be left at www.proutfuneralhome.com.