John Joseph O’Leary, 86, of Shallotte, NC died October 27, 2016.

Born in Flushing, Long Island, NY on August 31, 1930. A son of the late John O’Leary and Mary Snider O’Leary. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by the great love of his life Mary Ellen O’Leary, nee McBride.

Prior to retirement he was an Executive Marketing Manager for NBC and ABC networks. He was chairman of the Eastern Foundation Fund raising money for the Public Broadcasting Company, A member of the knights of Columbus (3rd degree), the DAV, and a US Marine Corps double Purple Heart recipient.

Surviving are a son, Jeffrey O’Leary, Little Neck, NY.; sister ,Marilyn Fowler, Belhaven, NC.; sister-in-law Eileen McBride, Columbus, OH.; brothers-in-law Gerard and Iris McBride, Sabastian, FL. and John McBride of Croton-on-Hudson, NY.; Nieces Linda Curico (God-daughter), Tewksbury, NJ., Gail Fowler Rogers, Belhaven, NC., Diane McBride, Sabastian, FL., Eileen McBride LaPlante-Caroselli, Trenton, FL., Nora McBride Marino, Scarsdale, NY., Mary Florin-McBride, Croton-on-Hudson, NY.; nephews Gary Deeds, Columbus, OH.; God-children Willian and Celine Gerandeau and their spouses and children.

Joh was a fervent Catholic, devoted to the Blessed Mary, a passionate American and Republican, a generous and thoughtful friend and host. Despite all his professional success, his proudest accomplishment was his service to his country as a USMC, Korean War veteran.

John asked that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to the charity of your choice. It is noted that he had a particular soft spot in his heart for veteran’s causes.

A Mass will be celebrated Thursday, November 3, 2016 at 10am. In St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church on Camp Lejeune, NC. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, NC.