Maureen P. O'Brien

Maureen P. O’Brien, 87, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on September 14, 2023. Born in Providence, RI, she was a daughter of the late Maurice A. Sr. and Delia T. (Cassidy) O’Brien.

Maureen was a Religious Sister of St. Francis assigned to the south teachers in Mississippi for several years. During her time in Mississippi, she endured the civil rights unrest, and quite often found herself in danger as she walked students home to keep them safe. She was passionate about teaching and her faith. She returned to Providence where she retired as a school teacher for the City of Providence. Maureen was a devout Catholic, and sponsored and taught numerous adults seeking confirmation. She was a longtime communicant of St. William’s Church, Warwick.

Maureen was the sister of Michael J. O’Brien and the late Maurice A. O’Brien, Francis T. O’Brien, and Winifred M. O’Brien. She was the beloved aunt of Peter O’Brien, Timothy O’Brien, James O’Brien, Paul O’Brien, Monica Hopkins, Autumn O’Brien, Christine Sarza, Patricia O’Brien and the late Craig O’Brien. She also leaves several cherished great-nieces and great-nephews.

Maureen cherished family, she was a mentor, and confidant to all. If there was a prayer needed she was immediate with her response to put it on the prayer chain. If anyone had a direct line to God it was Maureen. If hope was lost she would help you find it. Her heart was as pure as they come. Maureen was funny and simple, she loved her fur babies and treated them all with gentle care. Maureen was devout in all ways, to her family, friends, church, and community. Maureen, we love you and know you are surrounded by the joy and light that you have always believed in.

Her funeral will be held on Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. in the Russell J. Boyle & Son Funeral Home, 142 Centerville Road, Warwick, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. in St. Gregory the Great Church, 360 Cowesett Avenue, Warwick. Burial will follow in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 5:00-7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Senior Priest Retirement Fund at the Diocese of Providence, 1 Cathedral Square, Providence, RI 02903.