Jearl Leon O'Brien

Born on July 15, 1934 in Berlin, Pennsylvania, Jerry lived a full life marked by a tireless work ethic and service to his country.

Jerry proudly served in the United States Air Force with the Atomic Energy Commission. He had many adventures traveling the world installing telephone lines with IT&T before owning and operating O’Brien C.O.E Installation, which installed central office equipment for independent telephone companies. His work ethic carried into his operation of Hi Pockets Arabian Farms where he raised, trained, bred and showed Arabian horses. He was a judge for the Arabian Horse Association and was president of the Ozark Arabian Horse Club of Arkansas. He instilled in youth a love for horses and the industry. Jerry’s pride and joy was Aba Who, a stud from the line of Naborr.

In his later years, Jerry owned and operated the Missile Inn in El Paso, TX, where he had the privilege of hosting many United States military personnel and their families. A highlight was joining them in witnessing a missile launch in White Sands, NM. While in El Paso, Jerry served with the mayor’s Drug Task Force before moving to Orlando, FL where he developed a love for woodworking. In retirement, he crafted beautiful wooden pieces for family and friends, which will continue to be cherished for years to come.

Jerry enjoyed being outdoors—whether fishing, hunting or working on the farm. In his younger years, Jerry played minor league baseball, raced Corvettes, rode motorcycles and was the pilot of his own Mooney airplane. True to his roots, Jerry was a faithful Steelers and Penn State fan to the end.

Jerry leaves behind his loving wife of 52 years, Patty O’Brien. He is also survived by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, siblings, and nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at the Historic Crown Crest Cemetery in Hyde, PA, on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 3 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warriors and Tunnels to Towers.

Bennett and Houser Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. To leave a note for the family, please visit www.bennettandhouser.com