Catherine A O'Brien

Catherine Alice O'Brien, age 78, passed away on September 26, 2026. Born on April 22, 1948, in Altadena, California, Catherine was the daughter of the late Hazel (Tisbury) and Everett Portfield. A resident of Fleming Island, Florida, she will be remembered with deep respect and enduring affection by all who knew her.

Throughout her life, Catherine carried herself with honesty and quiet strength—resilient in the face of life’s changes, and compassionate in the way she met others. She was cherished not only for her kind-hearted nature and thoughtful presence, but also for the warmth of her humor, which so often brought lightness and comfort to the people around her. Her generosity showed in countless everyday ways, and her steady example remained inspirational to family and friends alike.

Catherine built a life marked by dedication and adaptability, reflected in the many paths she pursued over the years, including work in real estate and customer service. She later retired from Convergys, closing her career with the same reliability and care that defined her approach to life.

She also found joy in simple pleasures and meaningful routines. Catherine enjoyed reading, bowling, and cultivating a remarkable library collection—an enduring reflection of her curiosity and adventurous spirit, and of the comfort she found in stories, learning, and quiet moments well spent.

Catherine was married to Harry “Mac” O’Brien for 38 years, until his passing in 2023. Their years together remain a lasting part of her story and her family’s foundation.

Catherine was preceded in death by her sister, Diane Ortiz. She is survived by her loving daughter, Marie Bell (John Foster); bonus son, Willis De Lucia; grandchildren, Ricky Bell, Judy Bell, and Cassandra Bell; great-grandchildren, Brylie, Alex, Bricen, Brenton, Benjamyn, Maliki, and Hazle; and sister in love, Laura Schock.

A Graveside Service will be held at Holly Hill Memorial Park, 3601 Old Jennings Road, Middleburg, FL 32068, on October 3, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.