FR. PETER O'BRIEN

I met Father Peter O'Brien in the early Seventies when Alvin Ailey choreographed "Mary Lou's Mass", which was danced in City Center 55th Street Theater by his company. Miss Williams and her musicians were in the orchestra pit. She and Father O'Brien admired my dancing ability and thought I had something special to offer in dance. One night, after we finished the performance, I rode with him, her, and her nephew from the theater to Radio City Music Hall where Miss Williams played in a concert...

I still think about Peter and what he meant to my family -- particularity to my mother in her last days. I miss him.

I just read the sad news of fr Peter O Brien passing.He had a special place for me as he was the godfather at my Baptism;my cousin as his mother was my father's sister and I got to attend his ordination at Fordham University St John Chapel in 1971. Have fond memories of him.My name is Mark McGregor and I currently reside in Van Buren AR. My love to all the family.Mark McGregor

I send my condolences to Fr. O'brien's family. I am fortunate that just last year, we were able to "catch-up" after many years and fill in the blanks from my teen years in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area. Fr.O'Brien and his stories about his life and relationship with Mary Lou Williams have enriched my life.

I just heard the sad news of Fr. Peter O'Brien passing. He was the approachable priest the one that you could talk to him about anything. With that smile and great sense of humor. I recall one time my daughter came to pick me up church and I told him she had just gotten her first car. He said she can't leave until I Bless it. He kept us laughing for over half hour. I will dearly miss his spiritual advice. Heaven is lucky to have you keep them laughing .
Teresa Marin, Jersey City NJ

I just got word that a dear and wonderful man -- Father Peter F O'Brien -- my close friend, spiritual advisor, colleague, and one who went above and beyond for my mother as she lay dying -- himself died the other night. I had just visited him at the Jesuit residence at Fordham University a few weeks ago and was planning to go again soon. Funny and brilliant, he was an amazing man. My mother called him "Cool" and I will fondly remember them discussing such things as the cartoon "Family Guy"...

Fr. Peter O'Brien was an absolute joy to know and experience. When my wife, Florence and I found out he would celebrate the Mass we attended on any given day, we were overjoyed. He made you feel special. He made you feel safe. He made you feel confident that The Lord loved you in a special way. That's the way we felt about Fr. Peter O'Brien . He will be missed for certain.