John James O'Leary Jr.

He was born on September 11, 1954, in Rumford, a son of the late John J & Pauline M. (Vallee) O’Leary Sr. He attended local area schools, graduating from Rumford High School as a member of the class of 1973. While in high school John was a state wrestling champion. After high school John joined the US Army and served his country for 20 years, retiring in 1993 as a staff sergeant. Upon returning from the military, he obtained his Nursing degree.

He married the love of his life, Sheryl, on June 16, 1973. They quickly had two children, bringing their family to four. They all traveled the world while John was serving his country, including Germany and several states all over the country. During his tour, he served in Iraqi Freedom, the Gulf War and was an instructor at West Point Military Academy in New York.

After obtaining his degree, he spent several years at Swift River Medical Center in Rumford, moving on to Pinnacle Nursing Home in Canton before retiring about five years ago.

John was a longtime member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Rumford where he enjoyed playing pool and playing in tournaments around the state. He enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, riding side by side and spending time with his beloved dog Riley.

He is survived by his two children Jamie D. O’Leary and his wife Sarah of Mexico, ME and Brande R. Vining and her husband Travis of Rumford. He also leaves behind his six grandchildren Nicole Doyle, Nicholas Billings and his wife Emily, Nathan Billings and his wife Audrey, Noah O’Leary, Alexis Vining and Jesse Vining and three great grandsons Julian, Cullen and Landyn Billings, as well as his godson Casey Waugh of Seattle, WA, his four siblings Patricia Drakus and her husband Jack, Kevin O’Leary and his wife Diane, Phillip O’Leary and Marcie O’Leary and several nieces and nephews. He was also the grandfather of the late Lucas Adam Vining and the brother of the late Anne Clifford and Lewis O’Leary.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, from 5 – 8 pm at Thibault Remembrance Center, 250 Penobscot St, Rumford. A Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, April 16 at 11 am at the funeral home. Burial in St John Cemetery, Rumford at a later date.