William M. O'Brien

Pastor William Michael "Mike" O'Brien went to be with the Lord on June 1, 2026, passing peacefully in his sleep.

Mike faithfully served as Pastor of Cedar Springs Assembly of God in Leeds, Alabama. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, pastor, veteran, and friend whose life touched countless people throughout the community and beyond.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Terrance and Margaret O'Brien and Sam and Laverne Barnes; and his brother, Patrick O'Brien.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Mary O'Brien; his daughters, Jennifer Rutherford (Dave), Laura Layton (John), and Carrie Deese (Joseph); his grandchildren, John Rutherford, Lynx Rutherford, Emerald Adams, Waylon Adams, Abigail Layton, Summer Layton, and Sawyer Deese; and his great-granddaughter, Penny.

Mike proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps and completed a tour of duty during the Vietnam War. His military service reflected the same dedication, courage, and commitment that characterized his life, ministry, and service to others.

Throughout Leeds and the surrounding areas, Mike was affectionately known as "the TV Man." He worked for many years with Chester and Evelyn Hartsfield at Whites Auto and Western Auto, where he built lasting friendships and earned the respect of many customers.

One of Mike's greatest joys was driving a school bus for STS Transportation on the Tarrant High School route. He treasured the relationships he developed with students and families over the years.

As a pastor, Mike was deeply mission-minded and faithfully supported numerous missionaries and mission efforts throughout his ministry. His heart for sharing the Gospel extended far beyond his local church and reached around the world through his commitment to missions.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Kilgroe Funeral Home in Leeds, Alabama. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Funeral services will begin promptly at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel.

A private family graveside service will be held on Monday at the Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo, Alabama. In accordance with the family's wishes, the burial service will be limited to immediate family members only.

The family extends special thanks to everyone at Enhabit Home Health and especially the caregivers at Enhabit Hospice for their compassionate care, kindness, and support during Mike's final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama

1700 4th Avenue South

Birmingham, AL 35233

Alabama Ministry Network – Missions Legacy Fund

5919 Carmichael Road

Montgomery, AL 36117

Donations may also be made online through the Alabama Ministry Network. Please select "Missions Legacy Fund" from the drop-down menu and include "Legacy Fund for Pastor O'Brien" in the memo line.