Passing of former Dearborn Mayor John B. O’Reilly Jr.
Published Jan. 1, 2025
DEARBORN, MI - The City of Dearborn is saddened to announce the passing of former Dearborn Mayor John B. O’Reilly Jr.
The following statement was shared by his son, Devon O’Reilly, on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025:
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John B. O'Reilly Jr. who died peacefully January 1st, 2025 listening to his favorite music and poems while surrounded by family.
Known by most simply as ‘Jack’, he was a true son of Dearborn. Having served as City Council President for seventeen years and Mayor of Dearborn for fifteen, he dedicated nearly his entire life to public service and the city he cared most about.
A tireless advocate for enhancing the communities of Southeastern Michigan, he was active in numerous organizations including the Michigan Municipal League, Downriver Community Conference, United States Conference of Mayors, Southeast Michigan Council of Governments, Conference of Western Wayne, Michigan Economic Development Corporation and Urban Core Mayors.
His years of public service extended beyond the local level to meaningful contributions he made at both the State and Federal Government. He inherited his dedication to public service from his father, John B. O'Reilly Sr., who served as both Chief of Police and Mayor for the city of Dearborn previously.
Jack lived a rich and fulfilled life with his wife of forty-eight years, Christina, their three sons Devon (Melissa), Sean (Ronit), Dylan (Natlija) along with his five grandchildren: Kai, Quinn, Madison, Connor, and Henry.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations in his name to Dearborn Education Foundation or Friends for Animals of Metro Detroit. Information regarding a public memorial service will be shared in the coming days."
In response to the passing of former Mayor O’Reilly, Dearborn Mayor Abdullah H. Hammoud issued the following statement:
“It is with deep sorrow that we mourn the passing of former Mayor John B. O'Reilly Jr., known to so many as ‘Jack’.
A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Jack’s unwavering dedication to Dearborn and its people will forever be remembered. His legacy as a public servant, having served as both City Council President and Mayor for over three decades, stands as a testament to his love for this community. Jack’s tireless advocacy helped shape the city and region in many ways we know today."
A public memorial service honoring the life and legacy of former Mayor John (Jack) B. O’Reilly Jr. will be held on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, from 1-4 p.m. at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center. Additional details will be posted to Dearborn.gov as more information is available.
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