Jean L. O'Halloran

WORCESTER – Jean L. O’Halloran, 76, beloved mother of Kathleen A. Desmarais, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. Born in Worcester and raised in Auburn, Jean was the daughter of the late Thomas and Annette (DuHamel) O’Halloran.

After graduating from Auburn High School, she went on to further her education at Worcester State College. Jean enjoyed a long career in the travel industry, spanning more than 30 years. She was a ticket agent for TWA and worked for several local travel agencies including Four Seasons Travel where she was responsible for the travel plans for the New England Patriots as well as the Boston Celtics. After working at Youngs Travel Agency for many years, Jean discovered a passion for student travel. In 1984, Jean began working at the American Leadership Study Groups (ALSG) under the direction of Dr. Gil Markle, securing airline tickets for tens of thousands of American students traveling abroad. In 1992 Jean assisted Dr. Markle when he formed passports Educational Travel where she became the Director of Overseas Operations until her retirement in 2015. Jean cherished the many lifelong friendships she formed with her colleagues at ALSG and passports.

During her retirement years, Jean kept busy working at the Hanover Theater. In her spare time, she could often be found gardening, cooking, knitting and doing puzzles of all kinds.

She will be lovingly missed and remembered by her daughter and son-in-law, Kathi and Jamey Desmarais; two grandchildren, Kelli O’Neil of Worcester and David O’Neil and his wife, Dana; her brother, Robert O’Halloran and his wife, Gina of Webster; her two sisters, Patricia Beckman of Leicester and Anne Lemay and her husband, Gary of Fitchburg; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Thomas O’Halloran.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, June 21 from 10 to 12 p.m.in the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. A Funeral Service will take place at 12 p.m. in the funeral home followed by burial in Pine Grove Cemetery in Templeton. In lieu of flowers, and in keeping with Jean’s love for animals, donations may be made to the Worcester Animal Rescue League.

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