John Jerome O'Brien

John Jerome O’Brien, "JJ" who was the beloved husband of the late Joan O’Brien, eighth-grade and later-life companion of Mary Ann Kenney Coil, and devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on September 9th, 2023, peacefully and surrounded by love. He is survived by his children Mark (Sue), Bridget, John (Tia), Colleen (Tony) O’Brien-Brumley, and Marianne (the late Tommy) O’Brien-Bullock, and Ron Coil, a brother of theirs. He leaves behind a legacy of love and family, as a proud grandfather to Maggie, Katy, Mollie, Carrie, Shannie, Maddy, Tyler, Dan, Patrick, Mack, Isabelle, Abigail and the late Sadie, and great-grandfather to Mae, Eleanor, and incoming baby Redmond. Born to Phillip and Sarah O’Brien, Jack was a treasured brother to the late William (Barbara), Patrick (Rosemary), Mary Ellen (Marty) Redigan, and Sally (Howard) Hammes. Brother-in-law- of Jim (the late Carol) Marzolf, Bill (Joanne) Marzolf, and the late Frank (Barb) Marzolf, Patricia (Jack) Thill, Betty (George) Chandler, and Tom (Joe Pacheco). Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. Throughout his life, John lived his faith and was an active member of St. Mary of Redford and Holy Family Church. He began his career in the funeral industry in 1950, joining the staff of Ted C. Sullivan Funeral Home as an apprentice. After serving his country during the Korean War, he returned to work and earned his degree from Wayne State University Department of Mortuary Science in 1958, becoming a Board-Certified Funeral Director. He worked with Ted for decades and grew the business to the award-winning O’Brien Sullivan Funeral Home that we know today, dedicated to serving each and every member of the community. His dedication to the profession extended to his active involvement with the Michigan Funeral Directors Association, National Funeral Directors Association, and other organizations. JJ was also known for his public involvement, including his membership in the Novi Lions Club, George F. Monaghan Knights of Columbus, Alhambra, and the 4th Degree Knights of Columbus. He was an active participant in the Novi community and Holy Family Church. John’s interests extended beyond his professional and community activities. In his free time, he enjoyed traveling, golfing, and especially spoiling his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was an advocate for happiness and kindness, living by the motto: “Be happy and be kind to everyone.” His life exemplified his values of faith, family, and, of course, having dessert. We especially thank the dedicated and loving women that fulfilled his wish of staying in his home: Brandi, Deja, and Kay. Visitation will be at the O’Brien Sullivan Funeral Home, 41555 Grand River, Novi on Tuesday, September 12th from 3-8pm. In state Wednesday, September 13th at Holy Family Church, 24505 Meadowbrook, Novi, 10:00am until the funeral Liturgy at 10:30am. Interment with military honors at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the ARC of Western Wayne County in John’s memory (www.thearcww.org). The service will be livestreamed at for those who are unable to attend. Click here to view the livestream. John Jerome O’Brien, "JJ" will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, dedication, generosity, and kindness will continue to inspire us all. May he rest in eternal peace.

John Jerome O'Brien

September 30, 1930 - September 9, 2023