Lawlee Liane O’Connor
On October 2, 2016, we lost our beloved matriarch, as Lawlee Liane O’Connor (nee Mitchell) passed from this life to the next. Her departure was so unexpected and she left behind her husband of 60 years, James Brooks O’Connor, her 8 children, 19 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, and numerous extended family members and friends. Our hearts are broken.
To each of us she has given the gift of life, and on her deathbed she gave each of us a final gift of love and wisdom with her parting messages. Lawlee was the most incredible person. Full of patience and understanding, she had a way of making every member of her family feel special and important.
She was born in Eau Claire, Wisconsin on May 31, 1939, the daughter of Avis Virginia (Wier) and Clyde Mitchell and had two siblings – Diane and Joseph – all of whom preceded her in death. She moved to Seattle as a young girl, where she met her high school sweetheart, soulmate and life partner, Jim O’Connor. Their love story is one of passion and togetherness, and their 60 years of marriage are a great testament to commitment. Together they have 8 children (listed with their spouses): Jim, Colleen Harris (Mike), Kate Follis (Ched), Brian (Tina), Eileen (Joe Hovsepian), Jon, Liane Mazzella (Kenny), and Kerry (Aaron Eddleman).
Lawlee had a natural, warm and loving nature and truly loved children. Her grandchildren meant the world to her. They are (listed 
with their children): Carissa O’Connor (Araya); Michael Harris (Michael, Jacob, Emma), Christopher Harris, Jeffrey Harris, Kenneth Harris (Aimee, Connor), Jonathan Harris, Timothy Harris, Bethany Harris; Maxx Follis (Sean), Ashleigh Sisneros (Hayden, Clarence, Ezra and soon to be born Ophelia), Tyler Follis; Kristina O’Connor, Brian O’Connor; Andy O’Connor, Erin Green, Abby Jordan; Sarah Mazzella, James Mazzella; and Aria Eddleman.
Lawlee was a gifted doll artist and through this talent touched the lives of many, many people. She was a dancer, guitarist, seamstress, craftsman, entrepreneur, confidante, cheerleader, world traveler. She bandaged our skinned knees and sewed our wedding dresses. She was funny, smart, kind, and gave unconditional love to her family. There aren’t words big enough to describe how much we will miss the presence of this amazing woman in our lives.
13 Responses to “Lawlee Liane O’Connor”
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My deepest condolences.
Lawlee also loved teddy bears (especially Boyds Bears.) We both lived in Port Orchard, Wa. and enjoyed our little Bear Club. She also (with many of us here) was an avid collector of Longaberger Baskets. She made the most detailed little doll clothes. Her Christmas tree was fantastic. I remember a nice Victorian tea party she had for us in Port Orchard. She was the most talented woman I knew!
Lovely tribute to your mother, Kate. So sorry for your family’s loss.
Sending big hugs and deepest condolences, Kate. Sounds like you have a lifetime of wonderful memories of your mother.
Lawlee was my best friend. We met many years ago at a doll show and had an instant rapport. I am devastated at her loss, so can only imagine the heartbreak for her family. She was a rock for everyone to lean on, and always gave so generously of her heart. She will forever be remembered – and missed.
My mom’s funeral will be November 5, 2016 at 1pm at Holy Family Catholic Church
7045 120th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98033
Friends and family of Lawlee are welcome to join us in celebrating her amazing life.
I and my brothers and sisters have been gifted to have Lawlee as our second cousin. I especially was gifted to spend time with her growing up as well as adulthood gathering precious memories. I claim few heroes in my life, and Lawlee is one of them. She may have left, but she is not gone. She will be there for each and everyone of you forever. Treasure all the gifts she gave you, most especially life itself. Love you all, Ginny
Lawlee was always special to me since I first met her as a teenager. Her and I had so many things we enjoyed that were alike I always felt a beautiful connection with her and she always gave me the same feeling. I am very sad for our loss and especially her loving families loss. I know how it can hurt deeply from my losses of my parents. We are still all together in spirit, she will be remembered by her love and missed so very much.
What a lovely tribute to Lawlee! I knew her through Sunbonnet Doll Club and can attest to all of the above, especially her kindness and her awesome talent.
I will miss her and it has been a privilege to have known her,
I met Lawlee many years ago when I became interested in dolls of a type she was into at the time. We had a fine warm long distance relationship for quite a few years. We both got a new puppy a few years back coincidently about the same time, didn’t know it but then again by coincidence named our puppy’s each “Poppy”. I loved your Lawlee and all she was, so very much. I grieve for your loss which I cannot express in words. She was a splendid lady and you each have been left with her legacy of which not is seen often in this world. Her spirit is a special one.
What a wonderful tribute to your beloved mother. Our deepest condolences.
What a very lovely tribute to a wonderful woman! I love seeing the picture of Lawlee in her blue dress, and reminding me of her beauty inside and out! She was so very proud of her family and always shared their adventures whenever we got together. I have many “gifts” from her – including two tiny teddy bear ornaments that are on my Christmas tree every year;and also a recipe for what she called “Ted’s favorite cake”. She was such a great cook and artist! I am so so sorry for your loss.
I am one of Lawlee’s friends. I am richer for having known her. She is greatly missed.