Vivian Marie (O'Connor) Paisley

Vivian Marie (O’Connor) Paisley, age 94, of Landenberg, PA, passed away peacefully from natural causes on April 17th, 2026, at home, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on May 30th, 1931, in Oxford, PA, to Brian and Helen Storey O’Conner, she was the eldest of three girls. A graduate of Oxford Area High School, she rode the bus into Wilmington, DE each day to attend Goldey-Beacom College, earning an associate’s degree in business administration - a rarity in a time when few women sought higher education. During that time, she met James R. “Bob” Paisley, with whom she would share 53 years of marriage.

She worked for decades as a bookkeeper and office clerk for National Vulcanized Fiber (NVF) in Yorklyn, Delaware, before her family’s needs led her to what became her most treasured calling: caring for children. Beyond raising her own kids and grandkids, she lovingly cared for countless nieces, nephews, and the children of friends and neighbors throughout the community. Combined with her gentle spirit and kind heart, she became a motherly and grandmotherly presence to generations of children, playing a meaningful role in helping to raise so many.

In the few hours of spare time she had, she loved tending to her garden, playing tunes on her piano, reading, and watching British sitcoms. However, what always brought her the most joy in life was spending time with her family, especially when everyone gathered at holidays.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Bob; her son James R. “Jimmy” Paisley, Jr.; her parents Brian and Helen O’Connor; and sisters Doris Lillard and Geraldine O’Connor. She is survived by her four remaining children: Michael Paisley of Narvon, PA; Danny Paisley of Unionville, PA; Donna Paisley of Dagsboro, DE; and Kay Hoover and husband, Mark of Landenberg, PA. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

A visitation for family and friends will be held on April 23rd from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at West Grove United Methodist Church (300 N Guernsey Rd, West Grove, PA 19390), with funeral services immediately following. Burial services will take place at Union Hill Cemetery in Kennet Square.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Vivian’s honor can be made to Willow Tree Hospice Care of Kennett Square, PA.

Arrangements by Kuzo Funeral Home of Kennett Square, PA.