James E. O'Brien

O'Brien, James Edward, age 82, of Kettering, Ohio passed away on October 18, 2012 at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus. He leaves behind his adoring wife of 56 years, Mildred R. O'Brien (nee Ratliff) along with his three children, James Douglas O'Brien (wife, Jami), Susan Elizabeth Croom (husband, Chris), and Robert Francis O'Brien (wife, Amy). He also leaves 9 grandchildren: Will, Jennifer, Callie, Colin, Justin, Chloe, Jacob, Josie, and Joel. He was preceded in death by parents, Ruth and Oliver O'Brien, sisters, Marguerite and Ruth, and brother, Lawrence. One brother, John of Boston, Massachusetts, survives him.

Originally from Boston, Massachusetts, James served in the United States Army, later graduating from Manchester College with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. After retirement, he was an enthusiastic bridge player, often playing with friends at the Kettering Recreation Center. He was also an avid sports fan who loved the Boston Bruins, Celtics, and Red Sox. He was especially fond of the Cincinnati Reds. Some days, more often than not, he could be found quietly completing a crossword puzzle while watching a baseball game. Above all, he was deeply devoted to his wife and family, who will carry his love, influence, guidance, and fond memories with them throughout the course of their lives.

Family will receive friends from 4:00 – 6:00 pm on Sunday, October 21, 2012 at Newcomer Funeral Home, 3380 Dayton-Xenia Rd., Beavercreek. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, October 22, 2012 at the funeral home, with burial following at Miami Valley Memory Gardens, Centerville.