1921
2014
Cynthia Agnes O'Brien
11/01/1921 - 07/05/2014
Cynthia Agnes O'Brien was born Nov. 1, 1921, in Oakland, California to Thomas and Hyacintha Murray. She attended St. Jarlath grammar school, Notre Dame High School, (now St. Joseph Notre Dame), and Holy Names College, completing her RN certification at St. Mary's Hospital in San Francisco. During WWII, Cynthia joined the Navy Nurse Corps, working as a head nurse at Oak Knoll Naval Hospital. Cynthia was called back to service during the Korean War, and taught nursing to enlisted men at the San Diego Naval Station. She left that role as a full Lieutenant. Determined to hold out for the perfect mate, Cynthia waited until she met a handsome Marine Major, James John O'Brien, who had just returned from active duty. In 1952, they married. This Bay-Area woman was whisked away by her budding farmer to live on a ranch in Indio, California. Although initially not a fan of the desert summers, the wonderful home environment Cynthia created for her husband, their four children and many friends, won her over. She was lovingly known as "Muz OB," by many, and was often seen at the store stocking up on food and snacks to feed her numerous guests. Cynthia was very fond of practical jokes, and April 1st was one of her favorite days. No one escaped her shenanigans, including the nuns at her children's school who were tricked into eating chocolate covered soap! During the years her four children attended Our Lady of Perpetual Help elementary school, Cynthia was the school nurse and a frequent volunteer. In addition to school activities, she served on the board of the Community Blood Bank and belonged to the Indio's Women Club, CWA, and Catholic Daughters. Once their children were grown, Jim and Cynthia fulfilled a longtime dream and purchased a home in Lake Arrowhead, where they spent their summer months. Cynthia is survived by her husband, Jim; and children James Jr., Kathleen, and Thomas. She was predeceased by her youngest son, John, in 1993. She has seven grandchildren, (Summer Alexander, James O'Brien, Katherine Evertsen, Margaret Ballman, Elizabeth Schubert, Monica Sunderland and Claire Sunderland), and five great-grandchildren. Family and friends will gather to celebrate Cynthia's life on Friday, July 11, 2014, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Indio. Visitation will be at 10:00 a.m., a Rosary at 11:00 a.m., followed by a Mass at 11:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Indio Boys and Girls Club, 42-600 Cook St., Ste.#120, Palm Desert, CA 92211.
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Tom, Kathy, Jim and Mr. O'Brien...
So sorry for the loss of your mother and wife. I recall her as a lovely, witty, charming lady. Always with a smile and warm welcome. Her joy for life shines through in each of her children.
Carla Sanders
July 18, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers are with with the O'Brien family.
Helayne Angelus
July 13, 2014
O'Brien Family, your Mom was a great Lady. Fond memories of her during my years at OLPH school. Prayers are with you.
Sheila Lafayette
July 11, 2014
Our deepest condolences to The O'Brien Family. Cynthia was such a special lady. We will never forget her beautiful smile! Love and prayers, Joe and Shelley Tucker
July 11, 2014
Love and Prayers to all of the O'Brien family. So sorry for the tragic loss. Keep the wonderful memories and she will always be with you. God bless all. Love Barb & the late Howard Phillips.
July 10, 2014
CONDOLENCES: In memory of the late June, Bob,and Kathy Morgan, and the late Howard Phillips. Angels in spirit. God Bless sll.
Barbara Tilley
July 10, 2014
Mr O'Brien, May God Bless you and comfort you. Kathy, your Mom was always so helpful and loving, we have very good memories. God Bless all of you.
Antonio & Flora Mendoza
July 10, 2014
SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT THE PASSING OF MRS. O'BRIEN. WHEN WE FIRST MOVED TO INDIO, (SOME 46 YEARS AGO) WE DID NOT KNOW A SOUL....YOUR WHOLE FAMILY MADE US FEEL LIKE PART OF THE FAMILY WHICH WE'LL NEVER FORGET. THANK YOU ALL...SHE WILL EVER BE IN OUR PRAYERS. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.
LOVE, RICHARD AND MINNIE PENA
RICHARD & MINNIE PENA
July 10, 2014
Jim Sr, Jimmy Jr, Kathy and Tom, our heart felt condolences to you and your family. Many fond memories of the O'Brien, Butvidas and Carroll gatherings. I am sure your mom, Shirley and Weldon are planning some fantastic events up there in heaven :-)
Barb Butvidas
July 10, 2014
Our family is sorry to hear of the loss of your Mom and Grandmother. I remember as a child my sister, Tiffany & I would swim at their house. Both her and Jim were always so nice to us.
Tammy White
July 9, 2014
Thinking of you all at this time and the passing of a great Sun Gold Lady! What a fun gal! Who would ever think to trick the nuns on April Fools Day?! And thank you, Mrs. O'B for your service to our nation! You will be long remembered, never forgotten.
Carol Brockman Castro
July 9, 2014
Thank You Mrs. O'Brien for your caring, sharing and love all the years we attended OLPH school.
A peaceful light always shines.
Diane
July 9, 2014
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your dear mother. She was a great lady.
I remember her helping us when we practiced cheer leading at their house in our sophomore year. I think she wanted to join in with us in our practice. She was great.
I saw your parents at lunch a few years ago, and your mom spoke of her grandchildren. She was so proud of them.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. God Bless You.
Sandy Hardin (Manor)
July 9, 2014
Tom, Jim, & Kathy,
My heart goes out to you and your wonderful family. So many fond memories of being at your house for those fun pool matches. Indio lost a wonderful Lady.
Alan Marietta
July 9, 2014
My deepest condolence to the O'Brian family I have early foned memories of MRS O'Brian when she shopped at Indio Vons. A lovely Lady
Lucy Diaz
July 9, 2014
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