John Walsh O'Brien

John Walsh O’Brien passed away peacefully on September 18, 2026, at the age of 80, surrounded by family. He was born on June 23, 1946, in St. Louis, Missouri, the middle child of William and May (née Berry) O’Brien, who preceded him in death.

John is survived by his loving wife, Betty (née Crowe) O’Brien; his children, Sean (Amy), Erin (Andy), and Colin; his siblings, Marty (Kathy), and Maureen Thielemier (Ron); and his cherished grandson, Maxwell.

Born and raised in South City St. Louis, John attended St. Gabriel’s. His fondest childhood memories were of running throughout the neighborhood and over to Francis Park to play baseball, basketball, and soccer. John attended Bishop Dubourg High School where he helped lead the 1964 state championship basketball team. He attended St. Louis University, then taught for a year at DuBourg High School before joining the Army, where he served in Military Intelligence. After finishing his service, John returned to St. Louis and finished his master’s degree before taking a teaching position at Normandy High School. He also began coaching the St. Louis University women’s basketball team.

John and his wife, Betty, were married in 1978. They dedicated the next forty-eight years to raising and supporting their children while nurturing each other, modeling the love and day-to-day commitment of marriage. Throughout his life, John treasured time with his family, whether hauling the family on summer road trips filled with trivia, tiresome puns, and detours to military bases, coaching sports and playing backyard games with his children, or visiting Door County, Wisconsin, and the Missouri Botanical Gardens with his wife.

John’s generosity extended beyond his family and friends. He dedicated many hours to helping others, coaching CYC teams, sharing his time with St. Joan of Arc, and volunteering with the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

When he had free time, he loved gardening in his backyard and running. John spent over forty years running around Francis and Forest Parks and up and down the streets of South City, and he completed multiple marathons.

In his retirement, he continued to cultivate his garden and applied his teaching skills to his grandson, Maxwell, encouraging him to read as well as sneak sips of soda when his parents were not looking.

John leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.

John’s greatest legacy will be the love he shared with his family and the memories that will remain in their hearts forever. He will be deeply missed by his family and all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society or to a charity of your choice.

May John rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love he gave so freely to those who meant the most to him.

Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at Hoffmeister Colonial Mortuary, located at 6464 Chippewa St., St. Louis, MO 63109.

Mass will be held at noon on Monday, September 28, 2026, at St. Lucy’s Parish on the St. Joan of Arc Church Campus located at 5800 Oleatha Ave., St. Louis, MO 63109, followed by interment at Jefferson Barracks.