On March 7, 2003, Major Tom O’Connor, of the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office, received tragic news when he was diagnosed with leukemia. While his mind raced with thoughts of, “how am I going to survive,” and “what’s going to happen to my family,” the impact of the devastating news flooded his community and workplace. Tom’s family rallied to his side, while his friends, neighbors and co-workers donated blood, plasma and platelets and helped handle his responsibilities as a law enforcement officer. It is the response of those surrounding Tom O’ Connor and the willingness of those who recognize him not only for his association with public safety, but his selfless devotion to the West Cobb community that gave Tom O’Connor the strength and will to fight for his life. In June of 2003, Tom was told that his cancer had gone into remission.

As family and friends celebrated his recovery, Tom returned to work and continued to serve the community that he loves so much. But in November of 2004, Tom found himself back in the hospital as the cancer had returned. With the bravery and same determination that Tom has exhibited throughout his entire life, he fought back. This Marine and law enforcement officer was not going to be defeated. And for the second time in two years, Tom O’Connor won the battle.

He is one of us; he is a son, a brother, a husband, a father, a friend and a neighbor. Most of all, he is a SURVIVOR!

As you see on the news, read in the newspapers and hear from your friends and families, millions of people throughout the world are affected by cancer either directly or indirectly. Friends of Tom O’Connor, Inc. is a public safety organization committed to raising funds and promoting awareness for cancer research and ultimately to finding a cure. Through many different efforts this organization hopes to touch the lives of those affected by this disease. Together, we can “help public safety catch a killer.”

Quick Bio

Tom O’Connor was born and raised in New Jersey. Tom enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1972. After completing Military Police school he accepted an assignment in Albany,  which he thought would be close to home. He later learned that he was, in fact, assigned to Albany, Georgia not Albany, New York.

Tom began his employment with the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office in 1979. Since that time, he married his wife Libby and became the  father of a daughter, Courtney and son, Jason.  In 2002, Tom attained the rank of Major, where he supervises the day to day operations of warrant service, civil process service, as well as the Forgery and Fugitive Units. In addition to these responsibilities, Major O’Connor has been designated as the Commander for the Honor Guard Team, whose performance is unsurpassed.

He is a true leader, a great supervisor and one who exemplifies the true meaning of a law enforcement officer; Honor, Dedication and Perseverance.