Nancy Fields O’Connor, the widow of “All in the Family” star Carroll O’Connor, passed away on November 10 at the age of 84, due to complications from Alzheimer’s Disease. She died peacefully at the couple’s home in Malibu, as confirmed by a spokesperson for the O’Connor family on Thursday.
A Multifaceted Legacy
Nancy was much more than just the wife of a famous actor. Born Nancy Ann Kathleen Fields on December 13, 1929, in Spokane, Washington, she was an accomplished artist, author, activist, philanthropist, and documentary filmmaker. She executive produced the 2007 documentary “Anita O’Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer,” showcasing her diverse talents and deep passion for the arts.
A Love Story for the Ages
Nancy met Carroll O’Connor in 1951 while they were both undergraduates at the University of Montana at Missoula. Their mutual involvement in a Drama and Fine Arts Department production of “Life With Father” sparked a romance that led to their marriage later that year in Ireland. Carroll often credited Nancy with his career success, particularly for encouraging him to accept the iconic role of Archie Bunker in “All in the Family.” “I turned down the role of Archie Bunker twice until Nancy finally said, ‘Now listen here, Carroll, this is the role of a lifetime!’” he once remarked.
A Life of Philanthropy
As a philanthropist, Nancy was a founding member of the John Wayne Cancer Institute. She and Carroll received the Institute’s Duke Award in 1990 for their outstanding support for cancer research. Her contributions to various charitable causes left a lasting impact, reflecting her generous spirit and commitment to making a difference.
Family and Final Farewell
Nancy is survived by her daughter-in-law Angela O’Connor, grandson Sean O’Connor, brother and sister-in-law John and Jo Ann Fields, cousin Mary Reynolds, and eleven nieces and nephews.
A Roman Catholic funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 22, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Malibu Church in Malibu, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that tax-deductible contributions be made to the following charitable organizations: Melanoma Research, John Wayne Cancer Institute, c/o Providence St. John’s Hospital, 2121 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90404; The Actors Fund of America, 729 Seventh Avenue, NY, 10019; and The Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, Washington, DC.
Nancy Fields O’Connor’s life was marked by creativity, compassion, and a profound influence on those around her. Her legacy will continue to inspire and her memory will be cherished by all who knew her.