Phillip Roy O'Con

In loving memory of Phillip Roy O’Con, aged 68, who peacefully passed away on November 2, 2023, at Rapides Regional Medical Center, Alexandria, Louisiana, after bravely facing a prolonged illness.

Born on February 25, 1955, in Natchitoches, LA, Phillip, the middle child of Herbert and Ivy O’Con, left an indelible mark on the world. A proud United States Marine Corps veteran, he served in the Vietnam War, traversing the globe through various military duty stations. Post-military service, Phillip worked as a roofer and with the DOTD before medical retirement. His diverse skills included mechanics, computer operation, and jewelry repair, reflecting a lifelong commitment to learning.

Phillip's magnetic personality and warm heart endeared him to all he met, earning him the affectionate title of "buddy" by everyone he encountered. His passions encompassed sports, travel, hunting, and fishing, with a special fondness for the Dallas Cowboys and later the Houston Texans. Family held a paramount place in his heart, and he cherished driving to visit his grandchildren at military bases.

A man of diverse tastes, Phillip enjoyed Westerns, Lifetime movies, and the joy of cooking. His culinary talents shone in dishes like drunken chicken, lima beans with sausage and ground beef, crawfish boils, and squirrel stew. Known for his humor, he delighted in sharing jokes and singing familiar tunes like "Baby, Baby, Baby" and "You Dirty Little Rat."

Phillip's legacy lives on through his loving wife, Johnnie Mae O’Con, a sister, five stepchildren he raised Gwendolyn Ratliff (Cedric) of Natchitoches LA, Leslie Austin (Christina) of Houston TX, Arlannia Austin of Natchitoches LA, Kenneth Morrissette of Natchitoches, and Consuelo Hilliard (Brandon) of Severn MD as his own with unwavering love and care, 29 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, and a vast network of relatives and friends. Preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, and one sister, Phillip leaves behind a void that will be deeply felt by those who knew and loved him.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers whose compassionate support enriched Phillip's final days. In celebrating Phillip's life, let us remember the laughter he brought, the love he shared, and the enduring impact of a man who touched countless lives.

A service to honor his life will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, November 11, 2023 (Veteran's Day) at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home with Rev. Al Holden officiating.  The family will receive friends from 11 am until service time on November 11th at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home.  In following his wishes of cremation, a committal service will follow on November 18, 2023 at Fern Park Cemetery in Natchitoches, LA.