LTC (RET) Bartholomew Daniel O'Leary

Bartholomew Daniel O’Leary, born on January 17, 1943, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2024. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend to many. Bart grew up in a household steeped in service and dedication, with his father working at the Naval Shipyard and serving in WWII, and his mother, a former IRS employee, raising six children. Bart’s early education at Saint Patrick’s Academy set the stage for a life of discipline and commitment to faith. His siblings, his late sister Trisha (Gary), Tom, Michael (Jane), Maureen, and Kathleen (Jim), shared in the adventures and trials of a bustling family life. Bart’s profound sense of duty led him to enlist in the Army in 1966 as an Intelligence Analyst and received the opportunity to commission in 1966. He served with distinction in various units, including the 173rd Airborne Brigade, the 82nd Airborne Division and the 101st Airborne Division. His valor in combat was recognized with numerous awards: a Silver Star, 2 Bronze Star Medals with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster and “V” Device, Purple Heart with 1 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal with 2 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Presidential Unit Citation, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 2 Bronze Service Stars with Arrowhead Device, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge with 1 Bronze Service Star, Air Assault Badge and British Parachutist Badge. The Battle of Dak To, the fight to take Hill 875, was a defining moment in his military career, where he demonstrated extraordinary bravery and leadership. A moment he humbly refers to as being in “the right place at the wrong time”. After retiring from the military in 1989, Bart, alongside his wife Ellen, an Army veteran, and their son Matthew, also an Army veteran, settled into civilian life. He was involved with the Jacksonville Area Golf Association for many years. He spent 30 years volunteering with The Society of St. Vincent de Paul where he found great joy. Bart’s personal life was enriched by his marriage to Ellen, whom he met during his recovery at Valley Forge Army General Hospital. Their bond was one of mutual respect and shared experiences, leading to a loving family with their son Matthew, daughter-in-law Kelli, and cherished grandsons Nicolas and Tyler. Bart’s enthusiasm for life was evident in his love for golf, playing regularly with his son, and his unwavering support for the Jacksonville Jaguars. His legacy is not only in his military and community service but also in the strength and love of his family. Bart’s life journey reflects a man who lived with honor, courage, and a profound sense of duty. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, leaving behind a legacy of service and love that will forever illuminate the hearts of his family and community. Until Valhalla, his spirit marches on, embodying the warrior’s journey to eternal honor and peace. A visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at St. Johns Family Funeral Home in St. Augustine. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 9, 2024, at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in St. Augustine. A burial with full military honors bestowed by the United States Army will be at Jacksonville National Cemetery at 2:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make memorial contributions to St. Vincent de Paul Society St. Augustine Council 282 San Marco Ave. St. Augustine, FL 32084 (904-217-8097). Those desiring may leave messages of sympathy and encouragement on his tribute page: www.stjohnsfamilyfuneralhome.com. St. Johns Family Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

LTC (RET) Bartholomew Daniel O'Leary

January 17, 1943 - April 29, 2024