I was so saddened to hear of your Mom's passing. I grew up on Hamilton Ave in Chicago a few doors down from your Mom, attended St. Henry's school and St. Scholastica a year behind Barb. Her smile could light up a room and her positive energy was infectious. You were blessed with a beautiful soul for a Mom. You are all in my prayers. Ginny Serb Cox

Our deepest condolences to all of you on Barb’s death. She was our daughter’s First Grade teacher at St James & was so wonderful & kind!  I always enjoyed seeing her over the years & can still hear her voice. Prayers, hugs & sympathy!
Mary & Bill Bauer

My son was in one of Barb’s 1st grade classes.  I know that because of her that my son has done so well in life.   She was a wonderful teacher and person.  God Bless her family!
Susan Braasch

May your happy memories give you peace and comfort during this challenging time. She was a special person with an amazing personality who made everyone feel her love for life. It was a privilege and honor to work with her. I will always remember her smile and laughter and how she made me feel when I joined the faculty of St. James. May prayers help you during this difficult time.

I send my love & deepest gratitude for the presence of Barb  in my life.
How many lives she helped can't be over-stated: mine was just one. She was always ready to give and show support.

I was one of Barb's bridesmaids when she married Jim, and Kate was my flower girl. 

Between Barb and her mother, my Auntie Barbara, I learned how strong a family's love could be.
Every Christmas and holiday came to life because of their love.

I also remember the colorfully addressed and decorated birthday and holiday cards Barb always remembered to send. She made a big difference in this world, always to be remembered.

I was so fortunate to have Barb as one of my best friends. Our friendship began over 40 years ago with a cheerful phone call. 
The voice greeted me with  “Hello Honey. I hear you and I are going to be Girl Scout Leaders together!”
Wow that was a surprise!!
Barb introduced herself Ann’s we chatted for a couple of hours.  We were friends !!

Barb came to work with me at Prim Cleaners. 
Where we planned crafts and activities for our scouts during our lunch times. 

From Scouts we moved on to “Lunch Mothers”
At St. James School. Barb went to work 
at St. James as a first grade teacher.  But always found time to help me with various hospitality projects.
Barb was loved by everyone who met her. She introduced groups of friends and relatives to each other and somehow we became a “Family “.  
She always made sure everyone enjoyed the moments. Never thinking of herself first. 

My dear Friend Barbara Jo O’Brien has earned her wings 😇. She will be missed by many. 

Especially me. Love you Barb. ❤️. Adrienne 


The photos are Andrea, Sherry, Adrienne, Barb
We called ourselves “ The Fab Four “
We were all still friends thru 8-25-2003.

There are so many wonderful stories to tell about my very good friend Barb. 
She introduced herself to me with a very perky phone call.  Barb said “ Hi Honey. I hear we’re gonna be Scout leaders together!”  We chatted for an hour and became friends. 
 That was over 40 years ago!!
Since that day Barb and I shared many wonderful experiences.  Through those experiences I met many of her friends and family members. 

She and her very beautiful family became part of mine.  
We enjoyed many personal and social events together. 
We called ourselves “The Fab Four “
(Including a sister in law and another friend)

OBITUARY

Barbara Jo O'Brien

January 29, 1943 – August 24, 2023

Glueckert Funeral Home

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