Connor's Story
Connor Laverty was born on January 15, 1998, in Somers Point, New Jersey, to Tim and Trish Laverty.
He grew up with his siblings, Ryan and Brenna, and began his journey at Bishop McHugh Regional Catholic School, where his love of faith and learning took root. He excelled in sports and enjoyed school musicals and chess.
Connor attended Ocean City High School, graduating in 2016. There, he focused on basketball, reaching the milestone of a 1000-point scorer. His proudest moment was playing alongside his older brother Ryan during his freshman year. High school was also where Connor met Victoria, his soulmate and lifelong partner.
He went on to Widener University, where he continued to thrive in basketball, again becoming a 1000-point scorer and receiving accolades as Conference Player of the Year and Widener's Male Athlete of the Year. He graduated in 2020 with a dream of coaching college basketball. He started with AAU but then seized an opportunity to coach at his alma mater when a position opened up. He became an assistant coach at Widener, gaining valuable experience under Coach Chris Carideo. In 2022, he advanced to Seton Hill University as a grad assistant, while working towards an MBA.
Beyond sports, Connor loved music, movies, the beach, trivia, and analytics. Known for his natural leadership, positive energy, and deep faith, he connected effortlessly with people and deeply valued family.
In August 2023, Connor was diagnosed with Stage IV Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and HLH, an autoimmune disease. His spirit and faith remained unwavering through each round of chemotherapy, inspiring those around him. Connor passed peacefully on January 12, 2024, at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital.
Connor’s life continues to inspire those who knew him. His legacy of grace, perseverance, and gratitude lives on, and he will be forever missed.