Jeremiah Joseph O'Brien

Jeremiah Joseph O'Brien, affectionately known as "OB', joined the celebration in heaven on his worldly birthday, January 5, 2025 at the age of 74. Known for his infectious laugh and big bear hugs, Jere was a beloved husband, father, brother, brother-in law, cousin, uncle, and friend, whose life was marked by creating warmth, laughter, and community wherever he went.

Jere is survived by his loving wife Karen and their four children: Maeghan (Austin), Connor (Burgin), Brendan and Clare Poole (Clem). His legacy is also carried on by his brother Dennis (Kathi), brothers-in-law, Larry Berkel (Darla), Kevin Berkel (Joan) and Bill Berkel (Lesha), mother-in-law Jeannette D. Berkel, many cousins, and seven nieces and nephews.

He proudly served his country as a Captain in the Marine Corps for seven years as a CH-53 helicopter pilot, aircraft commander, instructor, and test pilot. Jere served at Camp Lejeune and New River, North Carolina, Tustin, and overseas at Okinawa, Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines.

Jere will be deeply missed by his family and countless friends, who will forever cherish his Irish charm, genuine warmth, passion for Notre Dame and Guinness, and his larger-than-life personality that made everyone feel special. Guided by his faith in Christ, Jere built a life of positivity and generosity. Together with his devoted wife, Karen, he created a sanctuary of abiding love that touched the lives of all who knew them.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Gabriel Catholic Church in Chesterfield on February 7, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. Interment at the Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jere's honor can be made to Tunnels to Towers Foundation or CARITAS.