Shawn O’Leary Obituary and Death: Tragic Passing of Shawn O’Leary, 60, of Avondale. A Beloved Family Man, Dedicated Tradesperson, and Community Pillar, Preceded in Death by Parents John Sr. and Helen O’Leary
On September 28, 2024, the town of Avondale was deeply shaken by the sudden passing of Shawn O’Leary, a beloved resident who had just turned sixty. His death marked the end of a life characterized by deep commitment to his family, an unwavering work ethic, and an innate generosity of spirit. Shawn’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and the community will feel his absence profoundly. Shawn was predeceased by his parents, John Sr. and Helen O’Leary, who instilled in him the values of kindness, resilience, and hard work, shaping him into the man who became a role model for so many.
Born and raised in Avondale, Shawn spent his life building a network of family, friends, and colleagues who admired his steadfast nature and the quiet strength he exuded. His strong sense of duty to his family was evident in everything he did, from the way he raised his children to how he showed unwavering support to his brothers and loved ones. Family always came first for Shawn, and this was something he made clear through his actions rather than his words. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Rhonda O’Leary, who stood by his side throughout the highs and lows of life. Together, they built a family that he cherished above all else.
Shawn’s greatest pride was his two daughters, Shaunna and Hannah. He adored his daughters and took great satisfaction in watching them grow into strong, independent women. Shaunna, married to Murray Corbett, and Hannah, partnered with Riley Kenny, were the center of his world. He took pride in every one of their accomplishments, offering his support and guidance whenever needed. Shawn was also a proud grandfather to his three granddaughters: Kaylee, Kaia, and Eli. He delighted in watching them grow, play, and thrive, and he loved spending time with them. To Shawn, being a grandfather was one of the most rewarding roles of his life. His granddaughters were the light of his life, and the memories they made together will be cherished forever by his family.
In addition to his immediate family, Shawn’s circle of loved ones extended to his siblings and their families. His brothers, Junnie (Kym), Dwayne (Debbie), Clyde (Brenda), and Dale (Pauline), shared a lifelong bond with Shawn that was built on mutual respect, love, and support. The O’Leary family was known for their close-knit nature, and Shawn was always there for his siblings, whether they needed advice, a helping hand, or just someone to talk to. His sister-in-law, Joanne McCarthy, was also a significant part of his life, and he treated her like one of his own. Shawn’s uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family members, including Jim and Wayne, Erin Matthews, and his uncle Kevin Parsley, all felt the impact of his gentle strength and compassionate nature. He was the quiet force that held many of his relationships together, offering support without asking for anything in return.
Shawn’s impact extended beyond his family to his professional life as well. He was a respected member of both Boilermakers Local 203 and Iron Workers Local 764. His work as a tradesperson earned him a reputation for skill, precision, and dedication. Shawn had a natural talent for his trade, and his technical ability was admired by his colleagues and mentors alike. He was known not only for his work but also for his integrity and reliability. Shawn took great pride in his profession and was always willing to share his knowledge with others, mentoring younger tradespeople and offering guidance to those who were new to the field. He was the kind of colleague who could always be counted on, whether it was to finish a difficult job or to lend a hand to someone who needed help. His loyalty to his craft and to the people he worked with was unmatched.
Shawn’s friends and colleagues remember him as a man of quiet strength, someone who didn’t seek the spotlight but always managed to shine through his actions. He was the type of person who would go out of his way to help others, whether it was offering a ride to a co-worker or fixing something around the house for a neighbor. His kindness and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Shawn had an incredible ability to connect with people, even those he had just met, and his willingness to give without expecting anything in return earned him the respect and admiration of many.
Despite the demands of his job, Shawn always found time for the people who mattered most to him. His colleagues often marveled at how he managed to balance his professional responsibilities with his commitment to his family and friends. Shawn was known for his sense of humor and his ability to bring a smile to the faces of those around him, even in the toughest of times. His calm demeanor and positive outlook were a source of comfort to many, and he often served as a steadying presence in both his personal and professional life. He was the type of man who made the world around him a better place just by being in it.
Shawn’s death has left a void that will be impossible to fill. His absence will be deeply felt not only by his family and friends but also by the entire Avondale community. He was a pillar of strength and a role model for so many, and his passing has left a hole in the hearts of those who knew him. However, his legacy of love, generosity, and dedication will live on in the memories of those who were fortunate enough to know him. As his family and friends gather to celebrate his life, they will remember the countless ways Shawn touched their lives and the many ways he made the world a better place.
A celebration of Shawn’s life will take place at Dunphy’s Funeral Home in Holyrood on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This will be an opportunity for family, friends, and colleagues to come together to honor the life of a man who meant so much to so many. The following day, on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 10:30 a.m., a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Assumption Catholic Church in Avondale. The Mass will be followed by a cremation ceremony, with inurnment set to take place at Assumption Cemetery in Avondale on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. These events will serve as both a farewell and a celebration of the remarkable life Shawn lived.
In the wake of his passing, Shawn’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the many people who have offered their support during this difficult time. The outpouring of love and sympathy they have received has been a source of great comfort, and they are incredibly thankful for the kindness and generosity shown by their friends, neighbors, and the wider community. Shawn’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him.