Kathleen M. O'Brien

Kathleen M. O’Brien, age 56, of New Hartford, passed away prematurely after a brief illness on Monday, February 13, 2012 with the support and the devotion of her family by her side. Kathleen was born in Boston, Massachusetts on July 20, 1955, the daughter of Kathleen M. (Murphy) O’Brien and the late Thomas F. O’Brien. She attended The Ohio State University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Life Psychology. She pursued post-graduate studies at Utica College where she received her Masters Degree in Childhood Education, graduating with the class of 2003. Kathleen began her teaching career with the Utica City School District at John F. Hughes Elementary School where she spent most of her tenure. She subsequently taught at Watson-Williams Elementary, and currently was a 6th grade teacher at Columbus Elementary. In her classroom, her students knew her boundaries and expectations, and the key to her happiness and success was that she worked adaptively and personally with her students, holding them to high expectations. Kathleen embraced science, technology, and math in her curriculum and extended her expertise to colleagues via instructional workshops. She was site manager for E-Chalk, Team Leader for STEM Grant, and an Educator of the Month. She taught various grade levels, and served as a mentor and tutor. She was passionate about quilting. She made quilts for family and cherished friends. She also enjoyed biking, and supporting the New England Patriots and the Boston Red Sox. Family relationships were paramount to Kathleen. She deeply cared for her mother and actively participated in her mother's care. She was the only and “favorite” sister. An awesome aunt, she loved beyond expectations. There was a bond of absolute trust and adventure between her and her nephews. She was a daily presence in their lives, and she was there for all their “firsts”. Kathleen is survived by her mother, Kathleen; and her brothers and sister-in-law, Bill O’Brien of Boston, and Thomas F. and Lori E. O’Brien of Clinton. Always close to her heart was the memory of her brother, Robert T. O’Brien, who preceded her on April 9, 2004. Also left to celebrate her memory are her beloved nephews, Thomas F. O’Brien III, and Allan S. O’Brien; her aunt, Ann Kirby of Brookline, MA, and many cousins. She was also blessed with many wonderful, meaningful, and important friendships, especially Michal Hovak, who she loved and admired as if a daughter, as well as Michal’s husband Adam and their children who were her extended family. The family wishes to acknowledge Dr. Will Hall and his wife, Jan, for their friendship and support. A noteworthy thank you is offered to the physicians, nurses and caregivers of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, especially those of the CCU whose care was exemplary. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a Memorial Gathering in honor of Kathleen which will be held on Saturday afternoon from 2:00-4:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South Street, corner of Hammond Ave. As Kathleen believed in helping others in their time of need, those wishing to express an act of kindness in lieu of flowers may make a donation to the Abraham House, 1203 Kemble Street, Utica, NY 13501; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Perhaps, Kathleen’s legacy can be found in her own words: “I believe that education is a lifetime pursuit designed to provide the foundation necessary for a productive life. I believe that every teacher should ignite the spark that allows people to enjoy learning”.

Kathleen M. O'Brien

July 20, 1955 - February 13, 2012