John J. O’Leary, 74, passed away on June 22, 2026, at the McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester, Vermont.

John was born in Buffalo, NY, to Robert and Jane O’Leary. One of nine children, he grew up in the Hudson River Valley, married Nan, his wife of 45 years in 1981, lived in Columbus, OH (1982-1992) where his daughters Erin and Brenna were born, and resided in Vermont for his remaining years.

John O'Leary was many things: a beloved brother, devoted husband and father, gifted musician, teacher, mentor, creator, and steadfast friend. Above all, he was one of life's true givers.

John's lifelong love of music began at age six when he received a small record player and a few 45s of Dvořák's New World Symphony. He would spend hours lying beside it, completely absorbed. That passion never left him.

Even as a child, John had an extraordinary gift for understanding how things worked. Whether repairing household appliances, building speaker cabinets from discarded fruit crates, or constructing his own tube amplifier from scratch, he combined curiosity, creativity, and remarkable technical skill.

As teenagers, John inspired his younger brothers to form a band, teaching them not only how to play but also how to listen, transcribe music by ear, and strive for excellence. Together they performed throughout the Hudson Valley, eventually backing local vocal groups and later forming The O'Leary Band. John's musicianship, leadership, and innovative guitar playing left a lasting impression on everyone who shared a stage with him.

His influence extended far beyond his family. Friends and fellow musicians often said their own careers in music and electronics began because of John's generosity, encouragement, and willingness to teach. He never sought recognition; he simply enjoyed helping others succeed.

John approached every task with patience, precision, and integrity. He believed in doing things the right way, and he almost always did. In the business he ran for over 30 years, Green Mountain Services, he continued caring for his customers in ways that went above and beyond, and he prided himself in that work ethic. He did not have a throw-away mentality, and his customers appreciated his work, interest in them, and always, his sense of humor.

Those who knew John will remember not only his remarkable talents but also his kindness, humility, generosity, unwavering dependability, and immense love for his family. His legacy lives on in the music he made, the people he mentored, all the customers and friends he helped, and the many lives he enriched.

John is survived by his wife, Nan O’Leary, daughters Erin and Brenna O’Leary; six brothers – Dennis O’Leary of Albany, NY; James O’Leary (Marge) of Highland, NY; Brian O’Leary (Scarlett) of Chatham, MA; Pat O’Leary (Gabrielle) of New York City, NY; Tim O’Leary (Gloria) of Hyde Park, NY; Kevin O’Leary (Hatice) of Austin, TX; and one sister – Sheila O’Leary DiMaggio (Fred) of Brewster, MA; 13 nieces and nephews, and two devoted cockapoos, Brydie and Binx. He is predeceased by his son, Ryan O’Leary; brother, Dan O’Leary; parents Robert and Jane O’Leary; and niece, Caitlin O’Leary.

A memorial service will be held  August 22, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at United Church of Colchester, 900 Main St., Colchester, VT 05446. 

Interment will be in the family plot in the historic Poughkeepsie Rural Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in John’s memory may be made to the McClure Miller Respite House or to a charity of your choice.