Mrs. Kathleen M. (Murphy) O'Brien

Mrs. Kathleen M. (Murphy) O’Brien, age 88, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 24, 2015 in the comfort of her home. Born on June 18, 1926, Kathleen was the daughter of the late James and Kathleen (Shadwell) Murphy. Her family immigrated to the United States and settled in Roxbury, Massachusetts where she was raised and educated. On October 12, 1948, in Massachusetts, she was joined in the Sacrament of marriage to Thomas F. O’Brien, Sr. with whom she shared 41 years prior to his passing on November 25, 1989. She adored his humor and they enjoyed an adventurous life together. Kathleen and Tom resided in numerous states during their years of marriage for work related reasons. Their family came to Central NY in 1974, and in 1980 they returned to Massachusetts. She worked as a realtor for Re/Max Realty in Foxboro, catering specifically to the housing needs of New England football professionals. Kathleen was blessed with a second union when she married her cherished companion, George Doyle; as a couple, they enjoyed a compatible relationship and great happiness. He passed away on September 18, 2003. Kathleen was blessed with a keen intellect and rose to the level of life master at the game of bridge. She cultivated her knowledge of horticulture and judged flower shows with finesse at the New York State Fairgrounds. Along the way, she established numerous garden clubs. Kathleen devoted herself to her family and held a great love for her grandchildren who warmed her heart. A very active woman, she had a passion for the game of tennis and enjoyed playing golf. She was a member of the Yahnundasis Golf Club, and the Beacon Woods Golf Club in Florida, where she spent her winters. She was proud of her Irish heritage and was a member of the Irish Club in Florida. She was a very devout Catholic and served as a Eucharistic Minister at her parish, St. Mary’s Church in Clinton. Kathleen is survived by her sons and daughter-in-law, William T. O’Brien of Braintree, MA, and Thomas F. O’Brien, Jr., Esq. and his wife, Lori, of Clinton. She will cherish the memories of her son, twin Robert T. O’Brien, who passed away on April 13, 2004; and her daughter, Kathleen M. O’Brien, who passed away on February 13, 2012. Her legacy will live on in the lives of her 2 grandsons, Thomas F. O’Brien, III, Esq., and Allan S. O’Brien; her brother and sister-in-law, Christopher and Barbara Murphy of FL; her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins, many residing in Ireland; her sister-in-law, Helen Murphy; and the wonderful friends with whom she was blessed during her life. She was predeceased by her brothers and sisters-in-law, Brendon and Lorraine Murphy, James Murphy, and Bernard “Red” Murphy. The family expresses sincere gratitude to Dr. Joseph Booth who assisted her through her final journey, and to the outstanding caregivers who cared for Kathleen with great devotion and afforded her the comfort of her home, and to live the remainder of her life with dignity. The family will honor and commemorate Kathleen’s life in a private gathering. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Saturday morning at 10:00 at St. Mary’s Church, 13 Marvin Street in Clinton where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. John P. Croghan. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of Mass. Interment will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Clinton at the convenience of the family.

Mrs. Kathleen M. (Murphy) O'Brien

June 18, 1926 - February 24, 2015