Joseph O'Brien

Joseph O’Brien, 82, of Marlton, NJ, formerly of Camden, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family and listening to his favorite music. A devoted husband, proud father, and adoring grandfather, Joe’s life was marked by faith, family, friendship, and a quiet strength that left a lasting imprint on everyone who knew him.

Born and raised in Camden, Joe graduated from Camden Catholic High School in 1960. He went on to build a beautiful life alongside his beloved wife, Dianne O’Brien, creating a home rooted in love, tradition, and laughter.

He was a proud father to Joseph O’Brien of Marlton and his wife Jamie (née Taylor); Michael O’Brien and his wife Bridget (née Radetich); and Robert O’Brien and his wife Jacquelene (née Ritter). Joe was the deeply loved Papa Joe to Trey, Chase, and Austin; Michael, Delaney, and Kaylee; and Jameson and Jack — a role he cherished more than anything. Whether it was cheering from the sidelines, attending school events, or simply spending time together, he poured his heart into every moment with his grandchildren.

Joe was the son of the late William (Reds) and Shirley O’Brien, and was predeceased by his siblings William O’Brien, Terry O’Brien, Fran O’Brien, Kathleen O’Brien, and Patricia O’Brien. He is survived by his loving siblings: Eileen O’Brien, Denise Nucifora, Timmy O’Brien and his wife Marybeth, Kevin O’Brien and his wife Maryanne, and Pat O’Brien and his wife Colleen. Joe treasured the bond he shared with his siblings, and his deep pride in his family name was always evident — he truly embodied the belief that being an O’Brien was something special.

He had a lifelong passion for golf and found great joy on the course with close friends and family. Some of his happiest moments were during large family vacations to Sunset Beach — weeks filled with golf outings, shared dinners, and late-night Jimmy Buffett singalongs that captured the warmth, laughter, and love Joe helped create. He also loved the family trips to Notre Dame — weekends that weren’t just about football, but about bonding with the people he loved most, telling stories, sharing laughs, and making memories that would last a lifetime.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Camden Catholic High School Development Fund for Tuition Assistance -300 Cuthbert Blvd, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002. Supporting the school that meant so much to Joe is a meaningful way to honor his legacy and ensure that others have the same opportunity to grow, learn, and carry on the spirit he cherished. Donations can also be made to The Samaritan Center at Voorhees. The staff at the Samaritan Center was extremely caring and compassionate to Joe and supportive to his family during the toughest time.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Thursday, May 8th from 10 am to 12 pm at St. Joan of Arc Church in Marlton, NJ, followed by a funeral mass at 12 PM.