Laura M. O'Connor

Laura M. O'Connor, 63, of New Philadelphia passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at her home. Born on April 18, 1960, in Greenville, Ohio, Laura lived a life full of love, warmth, and dedication to those around her.

In her professional journey, Laura's passion for travel led her to a successful career as a Corporate Travel Manager at AAA Travel in Independence, Ohio. For an impressive span of 33 years, Laura applied her expertise and nurtured countless connections within the industry. Her commitment and professionalism were unmatched, making her an invaluable asset to her colleagues and clients alike. 

However, Laura's life was not solely defined by her career achievements. One of Laura's most remarkable talents was pyrography, commonly known as woodburning. With deft hands and an artistic soul, she created masterpieces that captured the essence of nature's beauty. 

Laura had an uncanny green thumb and took immense pleasure in tending to both vegetable and flower gardens. Whether it was cultivating milkweed plants to attract monarch butterflies or carefully nurturing plump tomatoes, she found solace and joy in breathing life into nature's wonders. These gardens stood as testaments to her unwavering patience and devotion.

Laura's warmhearted spirit extended far beyond her personal interests. She dedicated herself to serving others with selflessness and unwavering faith. As a member of New Pointe Community Church, she actively participated in activities that aimed at building strong foundations within the local community. 

Among the many chapters of Laura's life, a significant one was the love story she shared with her cherished husband, James O'Connor. They embarked on their journey together on September 6, 2008, in a union that spanned 15 beautiful years.  She is also survived by her daughter, Caitlin Bardos of New Philadelphia; sister, Julie (David) VanDiest of Dover.

Laura was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Joan Wright Bair, and a brother, Rusty Bair.

Cremation has been entrusted to the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory at Dover.  There are no services or calling hours.

Memorial contributions may be made to New Point Community Church at 3950 State Route 39 NW, Dover, Ohio 44622.