Thomas Patrick Connor, known professionally as Tommie Connor, was a British lyricist and songwriter born on November 16, 1904, in Bloomsbury, London, England. He passed away on November 28, 1993, in Farnborough, Kent, England. Connor was renowned for his contributions to traditional pop and Christmas music, particularly during the 1930s to the 1950s. His career began in his teens when he worked as a call boy in London theatres, which inspired him to start writing lyrics. Encouraged by composer Herbert Stothart, Connor pursued a career in songwriting after gaining worldly experience as a steward aboard the RMS Empress of France.

Connor's first published song, "My Home Town," was recorded in 1932 by child star Little Mary Hagan. He achieved notable success with songs like "Jump on the Wagon," "It's My Mother's Birthday Today," and "When The Guardsman Started Crooning On Parade." He collaborated with various composers, including Edward Lisbona, and wrote hits for performers such as Arthur Tracy, Gracie Fields, and Vera Lynn.

His most famous works include non-religious Christmas songs like "The Little Boy that Santa Claus Forgot," "I'm Sending a Letter to Santa Claus," and "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus." Connor also contributed English lyrics to the song "Lili Marlene," which became a significant wartime anthem. He retired in the late 1950s, leaving behind a legacy of popular sentimental ballads and novelty numbers that resonated with audiences worldwide. Connor was survived by his wife, Catherine Connor (née McCarthy), and their five children.