Kathleen Myrna O'Brien

Kathleen Myrna O’Brien, lovingly known as Kathy, passed away on October 1, 2026, at the age of 86, in Bakersfield, California. She was born on October 2, 1939, in Visalia, California, to her parents, Henry and Daisy Brown.

To us, Kathy was so much more than a mom. She was our best friend, our source of love and laughter, and someone who made life more beautiful simply by being part of it. She was an amazing mother who gave so much of herself to the people she loved. Her generous heart, loving spirit, and unselfish nature touched the lives of those fortunate enough to know her.

Some of our most treasured memories are the yearly trips to the beach. From the time we were young children through our adult years, Mom made it a tradition to take us to the beach and spend a whole week together. Those trips were filled with fun, laughter, and precious moments that we will carry in our hearts forever. As the pictures show, Kathy enjoyed so many things in life, and she had a wonderful way of making ordinary moments special.

She also cherished getting together for lunch with her dear besties, Micki L., Sandy G., and Brenda M. Those friendships brought her happiness, and she treasured the time they spent together. And, of course, Kathy was a devoted 49ers fan who loved cheering on her team!

Kathy’s love was evident in everything she did. She gave freely, loved deeply, and always put others before herself. Her absence leaves an unimaginable emptiness in our lives. We miss her more than words can express, and our hearts ache for the days when we could hear her voice, share a laugh, or simply be together.

Although saying goodbye is incredibly painful, we find comfort and hope in Jehovah God’s beautiful promise of the resurrection, as recorded at Acts 24:15. We look forward to the day when we will see our beloved mom and our dear sisters again. We hold close the promise at Revelation 21:3, 4, when God will wipe away every tear and there will be no more suffering, pain, or death. The hope of a future life on a paradise earth gives us strength and comfort as we navigate this difficult time.

We are deeply grateful to Hoffman Hospice for their compassion, care, and support in helping us through these difficult five months. Their kindness has meant so much to our family.

Mom, thank you for a lifetime of love, laughter, beautiful memories, and a friendship we will treasure forever. You will always be a part of us. Until we see you again, we will hold you close in our hearts and look forward to the beautiful day when we can be together again.

We love you and miss you so much, Momma. Until we meet again.

With all our love,

Shawn and Melvin