Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Darby O'Brien Obituary
Greer, SC - Darby Adair O'Brien ascended into heaven Friday, November 16, 2012 to continue her life of serving the Lord.
Darby was an 18 year old freshman student at Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama where she was studying Interior Design, was member of Kappa Delta sorority and a member of CIDA (an Interior Design organization). A 2012 graduate of Riverside High School in Greer, SC, she was an Honors Society member and actively involved in Young Life and FCA. Darby attended Grace Church on Pelham Rd. in Greenville, SC where she was a fully engaged member of her small group and served as a pre-school Sunday school teacher. She loved serving the Lord by caring for and serving others. She participated in several mission trips through Grace and most recently served on a trip to Eleuthera Island. She is survived by her parents John and Kelly O'Brien of Greer, SC a sister Delaney, brothers Brooks and Brody. Additionally, she is survived by her Grandparents Jack and Jean Hendrix of Arden, NC; Jack O'Brien of The Villages, FL; Deloris O'Brien Stone of Lexington, KY; Aunt Shauna O'Brien Pearson of Charleston, WV; Aunt Sandy and Uncle Jim Austin of Asheville, NC; cousins Alley Pearson, Taylor Pearson and Aubrey Austin.
A service celebrating her life will be held this Tuesday, November 20, 2012 at 6:30PM at the Grace Church Worship Center, located at 2801 Pelham Rd. Greenville, SC 29615.
She is truly God's child. Darby's family is amazed at the outpouring of love, support and prayers from all of the communities the O'Brien family has resided in: Atlanta, GA, Barrington, IL and Greenville, SC. Darby touched so many lives in her short 18 years and, though she will be missed greatly, her family is comforted in knowing she is now with the Lord.
In lieu of flowers, the family is accepting donations to the Darby O'Brien Charity Foundation at Wells Fargo Bank.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Darby O'Brien
Grandma DeeDee
November 12, 2020
Darby was a beautiful person inside and out. She set the bar high for her siblings. Loved her family with all her heart. I will never stop missing her or wondering what she would be doing on this earth. She showed us how to make God the center of our lives. Loved my Darby.
MaryRich maloy
November 12, 2019
Sending warm thoughts
John O'Brien
September 7, 2013
Thanks so much to everyone for your prayers and for keeping Darby's legacy alive. Her faith and love for The Lord have most certainly landed her at home in Heaven. We continue supporting the organizations that helped shape Darby's life here on earth. Through The Darby O'Brien Charity Foundation (@ Wells Fargo Bank), Young Life of Greenville, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Grace Church of Greenville Youth Missions have benefitted. They truly shaped Darby and prepared her for a life everlasting. Thank you again!
Lisa Rhodes Sloop
February 21, 2013
"You're blessed when you are at the end of your rope.With less of you there is more of Him. You're blessed when you feel you have lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.Kelly I have prayed and thought of you everyday since I found out about Darbys' passing. I just wish you peace. Love you, Lisa Rhodes Sloop
The Rigby Family
December 17, 2012
John, Kelly, and Children,
Our deepest sympathies and comfort to to you all. You all are in our prayers.
Greg, Hee Son, Vicotoria, Katherine, and Sarah Rigby.
Cecil and Irene Rigby
December 17, 2012
Kelly & John, Delaney, Brooks, Brody, Jean & Jack, and all other close family- Irene and I are sincerely sorry and in shock at Darby's passing. We only learned of when talking with Jean a little over a week ago. You have our condolences and prayers during this troubling time. It is a comfort to know her life, short as it was, was filled with such care and devotion to the needs of others, which is truly the calling for each of us. That you raised such a God-fearing and selfless daughter speaks volumes to me about your own faith. Draw close to God- He is with you. Our love to you all.
megan ward
December 13, 2012
Days have passed, but the prayers have not, still praying for your family and hoping God's peace is with you.
Ronnie Israel
December 2, 2012
Kelly, Jack, Jean;I am so sorry for your loss.Just know that everyone is in our thoughts and prayers. From talking to people who knew Darby, what a beautiful person she must have been.I pray for God's peace and grace for the family.
December 2, 2012
Kelly, Jack and Jean,
I am lifting you and your family up in prayers for the loss of your precious daughter and granddaughter.
Paula Alsup Edwards
December 1, 2012
John,
May God's lovingkindness be with you and your family, now and forever more...Richard Whiting, Century Hotel
December 1, 2012
John, Kelly, and family,
Our prayers and sincere comfort are with you all. We just received word of this heartbreaking news. We remember Darby being our 'mother's helper' while you all lived in Woodbridge. We will always remember her smile and sweet spirit. May God cover you with peace and comfort until you are with her again. Much love, The Zhun Family
Ross & Marcy Olhausen
November 29, 2012
We are so sorry for your loss. Our memories of Darby on the soccer field will always be great. She is a wonderful child of God. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. We were blessed to know her.
Julie Plaisance Godfrey
November 28, 2012
To the O'Brien and Hendrix Family,
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss. May God hold you close and comfort you, during this difficult time and always. The Plaisance Family
Nola Mae Allen Rhew
November 27, 2012
We talked with her Uncle Jim today. I came home and looked up her death. So sorry for you loss. We lost a son at 18 years of age. May God Forever Bless all of you.
Alley Pearson
November 27, 2012
I have all the faith in the world that God has a special plan for Darby. My prayers continue to be with you Uncle John and Aunt Kelly as well as my cousins. I love y'all so much and am praying for you every day. RIP Darbs, I love you forever.
Karen Carnes
November 26, 2012
I knew Darby from volleyball, her smile and great attitude will be missed. I am so sorry for your loss and you will continue to be in my prayers.
Richelle Elkins
November 26, 2012
O'Brien Family,
I am so saddened by your loss, but comforted in knowing that Darby was a believer and has gone home to be with her God. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Please tell Delaney hello and give her a big hug for me.
~Richelle Elkins
Milo and Gayle Polovina
November 25, 2012
Dear John and Kelly,
Our family has nothing but wonderful memories of sweet Darby. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May her memory be eternal.
David Martin
November 23, 2012
John, Kelly and Family. I was deeply saddened with the news of Darby's passing. My meories are of that sweet, tough little girl dealing with some health issues at an early age. Always so positive and smiling knowing nothing was going to get her down. My prayers are with you doing this tough time. I love you both.XOXO
Grandma DeeDee Stone
November 22, 2012
The light of this candle will burn forever as a light in my heart for Darby. I miss her so.
Tracie & Dusty Cantrell
November 21, 2012
Kelly, John and Family,
We're so saddened to hear about the loss of your beautiful daughter Darby. Know that you have been in our thoughts and prayers. We will continue to pray over your sweet family.
November 21, 2012
My thoughts and prayers with your family. Darby was just a sweet girl and her light is shining through many lives. May the Lord strengthen you and keep Darby's memories onward. She is at peace in God's hands....Ola & family..Kennesaw, GA
November 21, 2012
John, Kelly, and Family, /darby's service left us speechless. God has performed the greater miracle, and we have wittnessed it. He has been, and will be , so much more glorified than we can ever imagine b/c of Darby!
November 21, 2012
Our thoughts,sympathy and prayers are with your entire family.May her memory be eternal
Kay & Bob Morgan Rock Hill, SC
Cindy Schranz
November 21, 2012
Thinking of you and your family Kelly.
Charlie Allen
November 21, 2012
Coach & Mrs. Hendrix, May God bless you and your fomily in this time of sorrrow
Laura Sword
November 21, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
November 21, 2012
Dear O'Brien Family,
I was completely heartbroken when I heard about your loss. Having lost my daughter nearly ten years ago, I understand the depth of your pain. I also know our Lord's love for us is even deeper still. He will be ever faithful in bringing you His comfort and peace. You will continue to be held in our hearts and prayers.
Sincerely, Shawna, Steve, Aaron, Ryan and Sam Kane
Janet Edwards Hembree
November 21, 2012
Kelly,
My prayers and thoughts have been with you and your family since I heard. Your faith will get you through this. What a mighty God we serve!
Kelly Nolan
November 21, 2012
Kelly and family, Hoping you all find peace in your hearts soon as you are grieving the loss of your beautiful Darby.
Andreas Bruckmoser
November 21, 2012
Dear John,
May I offer you my sincere condolences!
Our thoughts are with you and your family!
Andy (W&H)
November 21, 2012
I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. Your family will be in my prayers
Mandi Carter
November 20, 2012
What an amazing young woman. Sending prayers to the entire O'Brien family...
November 20, 2012
John, Kelly and family, we are so sorry... Darby is a precious gift to you and she touched so many people positively in her life and death. We are praying for all of you. We love you, Carol, Gracie and Madeline Echols
November 20, 2012
John & Kelly,
We are so sorry about Darby. Your faith provides tremendous encouragement in the face of adversity. War Eagle.
Brian & Celia Potter
November 20, 2012
My prayers are with you and your family. Sincerely Rhonda Smart Robertson
November 20, 2012
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Our family will continue to lift you up in prayer as you face the difficult days ahead.
Love,
Brad & Kelly Dill and Family
NWLL
John & Deb Kuzman
November 20, 2012
John & Kelly,
We were so sorry to hear about Darby. May your faith and friends help you get through this very difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
November 20, 2012
Kelly, Brody & Family, We are just so devastated for the loss of you beautiful daughter/sister. We will continue to pray for your family. Stephanie & Brody Wistrom
The Urban Family
November 20, 2012
We attend Grace Church, but never had the pleasure of meeting Darby. It is evident that she had an amazing impact on so many. We continue to pray that God gives you strength and comfort during this difficult time.
The Sharpes
November 20, 2012
My daughter played volleyball with Darby at Riverside HS. She was so sweet and had the most beautiful smile. Our prayers are with your family.
Kris Christian
November 20, 2012
My hope is in the empty tomb of Jesus, the comfort of the Holy Spirit, and the on-going Love of God. Peace be with you in this very difficult time.
November 20, 2012
Dear Kelly,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I know you enjoyed such a special and close relationship with Darby. I so appreciated your sharing with me,her experience transitioning to Riverside. You have been in my prayers since I first heard about Darby.
Karen Barrett
November 20, 2012
DEAR KELLY, JOHN AND FAMILY, I CONTINUE TO LIFT YOU ALL UP IN PRAYER TO OUR LOVING GOD. MAY HIS SHOULDERS BE BROAD AND HIS COMPASSION DEEP FOR YOU ALL AS YOU TRAVEL THIS VALLEY. I AM SO VERY, VERY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. MUCH LOVE AND CARE TO YOU ALL, CYNTHIA YOUNG HONEYCUTT
Becky Mills
November 20, 2012
Dear Kelly and John - I am so sorry to hear about Darby. I was a preschool teacher at FPC and we all loved your wonderful children. Please know that I will keep you all in my prayers at this difficult time and will be thinking of you especially tonight during the service for Darby. God be with you always! Love, Becky Mills
Jane Clark
November 20, 2012
Dear O'Briens,
Our hearts are heavy at learning of the loss of Darby. It seems like yesterday that we saw her playing out in the yard at Jean and Jack's and she grew into such a beautiful young lady and was obviously full of faith and love for her Lord! We reach out to you with sympathy at her passing but rejoice that through faith you will all be together again someday soon. Thinking of you and lifting you all up in prayer, Lovingly, Jane, Doug, Robert and Rebecca Clark
Attaways
November 20, 2012
We are continuing to pray for all of your family. While we are so sad about Darby's passing, we are sure she is in such a wonderful place. We love y'all.
Rick Cacciatore
November 20, 2012
John & Family,
You are in our thoughts and Prayers.
November 20, 2012
John, Kelly and Family,
Words cannot express how sorry Kathleen and I were to hear of the passing of Darby. May you take comfort that she is with God in heaven. Your entire family will be in our thoughts and prayers!
God Bless
Al Tejera
Michael Hart
November 20, 2012
Kelly, John & Family
You are in my thoughts and prayers as you grieve your loss.
God bless you and keep you close in your time of sadness.
Faith is our comfort as we grieve.
May your faith in Christ's promises bring you peace.
Through your tears and in your sorrow, know that God holds you close.
"Be still and know that I am God" Psalm 46:10
November 20, 2012
Dear Obrien's
Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers here at Columbus Regional, the Medical Center where Darby was brought when she became ill. Your family and your faith and your friends will sustain you through the tough days ahead. May the Lord of Peace comfort each one of you during this most difficult time.
Chaplain Mike Stewart
The Medical Center
Columbus,Georgia
November 20, 2012
May peace and comfort find you today, tomorrow, and in all coming days. I am so very sorry for your loss. Cathy Boring Hoosier
November 20, 2012
We already miss you on the Plains Darby!
Edie Hancock
November 20, 2012
Kelly,
My faith, hope, and love to you and your family. Hold your precious memories of Darby close and celebrate her wonderful life.
AOT
November 20, 2012
Kelly,
We have fond memories of you duirng your years at T.C. Roberson. You were so blessed to have a daughter like Darby and we pray that God's presence will be close to you, and you will be reassured that she is in His presence.
Thelma and Vic McGraw (parents of Manning)
Mike & Sharyn Morris
November 20, 2012
John & Kelly,
Words cannot express how heartbroken we are for you, Delaney, Brooks and Brody for the loss of your precious Darby. We were so happy to see your beautiful family at Cole & Ian's wedding. Darby was such a a doll, and reading about her accomplishments makes that even more apparent. You will forever be in our thoughts.
Beth Vanderbeek Graham
November 20, 2012
Dear Kelly, I heard about your tragic loss and I am devastated for you. I always remember your sweet smiling face, and that of your mother, from my years in high school. And I see your face in this picture of your daughter. I read about her very accomplished short life and realized how important her spirituality was in that life, and,by extension, in yours and your family's as well. I hope that can be of some comfort, all the things she has done. And the peoples' lives she has blessed.
I wish there were more than words, but maybe reading from all those who have written here it will help a little.
My sincerest condolences, Beth
pam mcclure
November 20, 2012
God bless this family, Darby's parents and her grandparents-Jean and Jack Hendrix (cherished teachers of ours). Glenna(Satterfield-Moye), Pam(McClure)and Steve Ducker
Katelyn Bostock
November 19, 2012
Darby changed my life in many ways. Not only did she show me what a true friend was, she also taught me how to be a daughter of the lord. One of my favorite memories of our time together was way back in 7th grade at elevate's summer camp. As we walked back to the cabin after a day of fun Darby, Caroline and I saw a shooting star! This is just one of the many special memories sweet Darby has made for me and I only wish we could have had more. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all who were touched by Darby.
I love you,
Katelyn and Family
November 19, 2012
Kelly... I have been thinking about you so much, my heart is just breaking for you and your family. I never met Darby, but really wish I had. Her relationship with God, her generousity, good heart and sincere grace is so apparent. What a true Blessing she was on this earth and will be in heaven.
I wish I could be there to celebrate her life on Tuesday, just know I send my love and a really big hug.
God Bless
Carrie Bither Baird
Harvey and Clara Jett
November 19, 2012
Please know how sorry we are for the loss of your precious child. Darby was such a special young lady. May God sustain you in a way only HE can. Heaven welcomes her to eternal life, gates of pearl, streets of gold, no more sorrow or pain, and peace forevermore. Sweet Darby now has the ability to look upon the face of God, our heavenly Father. We know one day we will see Darby in her heavenly home. We love your family and will continue to lift you up in prayer. Hold on to the "ANCHOR." HE NEVER fails and is ALWAYS faithful! Special love and prayers to Dee and all of the family.
Martha Logan
November 19, 2012
John, Kelly and family,
You have been in my prayers since I heard and I will continue to pray for all of you. Darby was just so special from the time she was born, I remember what a sweet spirit she had at a young age. I hope you can find comfort your many wonderful memories.
Much love Martha
Dee Johnson
November 19, 2012
Kelly, many prayers for you and your family. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. May God's peace give comfort to you all.
November 19, 2012
We were so sorry to hear this news. May you find comfort and peace from all the prayers being sent up for you during this time.
Andy, Donna and Maddie Anderson
Deb Voso
November 19, 2012
John and Kelly,
There are no words to express the sadness we feel for your loss. I still remember Darby in her little T-ball uniform with Nick at Oregon Park. We feel lucky to have shared those years with you all and will treasure them even more now. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family. Love to all,
Chris, Deb, Mike, Nick & Anna Voso
Chuck & Lori Couch
November 19, 2012
O'Brien family, may The Lord comfort you in this difficult time. It's a blessing knowing that Darby has gone ahead of us to serve The Lord in his presents. I can't imagine the hurt you all are going to endure in the weeks and months to come. But rest assure you are not alone as you remain in His will. And you will be in our prayers.
Love in Christ
Lisa and Bud Rogers
November 19, 2012
Words cannot express our sympathy at the loss of your daughter. We just met her several weeks ago at the KD Family Night in Auburn. My daughter and Darby's pledge sister, Anna, is grieving her loss as well. We continue to keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
November 19, 2012
May God love and hold you tightly, you are now an angel looking down upon your friends and family, protecting and watching over them.
Rick and Liz Maynard
November 19, 2012
Kelly and John, Darby is someone who touched many hearts and those hearts will touch many more. In this way, Darby will always remain a part of you and all that surrounds you. All of our love and prayers to you and the family and wishing you peace as you celebrate her life.
Mike Stokes
November 19, 2012
My heart and PRAYERS are with you in the time of sorrow and may GOD continue to be with you.
November 19, 2012
Bob and Hope Robeson
Another sister to look forward to meeting in heaven. Praise God.
Marilyn & Tom Anderson
November 19, 2012
We want to express our sympathy to your family and are so sorry for your loss. Sending our love to you, Deloris.
Anita Adams
November 19, 2012
My heart and prayers are with your family and friends. - Anita Adams
November 19, 2012
You will be sadly missed at Auburn University sweet friend - but we know the Angel's are rejoicing now as they have a new War Eagle member!
Lyric Resmondo
November 19, 2012
Our hearts are with your family. We are so very sorry this has happened.
Margarette Lynch
November 19, 2012
Words just cannot say how very sorry I am for your family. I never met Darby, but, always heard good things about her from my sister-in-law, Bette Overman. God keep you in His arms. Sincerely, Margarette Overman Lynch, Williamsburg, VA
Steve Bourque
November 19, 2012
John and Kelly,our thoughts and prayers are with Darby and your entire family.
Steve and Edie Bourque
Susan Pritchard (Kaminskas)
November 19, 2012
Kelly and John,
As others have mentioned in this guest book, my relationship with the two of you goes back to the days of Post. I have never forgotten those days and the wonderful memories I have of you. I just cannot express how sad and heartbroken I am for your family. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Doris Thornton
November 19, 2012
I am a neighbor of Dee Stone at Heritage Place in Lexington, Ky. I am so sorry for the loss of your daughter and Dee's granddaughter. My prayers go out to all of your family at this very sad time. My prayer is that you will find comfort in knowing that Darby was a Christian and that she will be in the loving arms of our Lord. God Bless all of you at this time.
Craig & Michele Milam
November 19, 2012
You and your family are in our prayers.
Vickie Nelon Phillips
November 19, 2012
Kelly, you have been in my thoughts and prayers since I heard about Darby. I know that she had the kindness and exuberance of her mom and that she was loved by all that knew her. Wishing you comfort in the wonderful memories of her life --
The McCoy's
November 19, 2012
We do not know you or your precious daughter, but we wanted to send our condolences. We read the obit, and noticed Darby was a student at Auburn. We have a son that attends Auburn also. We will be faithfully praying that God will wrap his loving arms around you during this most difficult time. May God Bless.
MaryRich Maloy
November 19, 2012
I send so much sympathy to the entire family in this heartbreak. Much love to Delores.
MaryRich Maloy
November 19, 2012
I am so very, very saddened by your loss. Please know that I am thinking of all of you. Much love to Deloris.
Vince Townson
November 19, 2012
Vince and LaChelle Townson, John our prayers are out to you and your family.
Nancy Williams
November 19, 2012
I did not know Darby. I helped with the candlelight service, the love and devotion of Darby's family and friends was unreal. I have never experienced such an outpouring of love. we were truly in the presence of God. He now holds Darby in the palm of his hand. She will forever remain in my heart and her preious family and friends will remain in my prayers
Jacob Sigmon
November 19, 2012
John...your family is in our thoughts and prayers. There are many in our dental community that mourns with you.
Becky & Trevor Jordan
November 19, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and we rejoice that Darby is singing among the angels! You will see her again!!
Mary Ann Wells
November 19, 2012
Kelly, my heart joins with many in the earthly loss of your precious daughter. May God comfort you with His love and His promises.
Mary Ann Wells (sixth grade teacher)
Mike McGuire
November 19, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss.
Kelly Rowley
November 19, 2012
Kelly, You would light up a room and I am sure Darby did the same. I am so sorry for your loss and know that many people are praying for you and your family during this difficult time. God Bless.
Kelly Sams Rowley
KIM MOWBRAY
November 19, 2012
I'M SO SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF DARBY, A TRULY BEAUTIFUL SOUL. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.
November 19, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We are so sorry for your loss and we are praying for strength and peace for you at this time.
Ashley and Matt Whelan
and Family
Alison Frazier
November 19, 2012
Ray and I are so deeply saddened by your loss. Our thoughts are prayers are with you all. Ray and Alison Frazier
Shelley and Gary Sems
November 19, 2012
We are a part of your church family at Grace and are so saddened to hear about Darby. We are praying that you will see God's light and feel Gods hand in this time of darkness and that it will give you strength, peace, and hope.
Jim Lease
November 19, 2012
John and Family-
Your friends are praying for you and your family. We are so sorry for your loss. God bless you and your family.
November 19, 2012
All our love and prayers are with you. We will see her again. Aunt Betty & Uncle Bill
Greg & Sue Bach
November 19, 2012
To The O'Brien Family:
No words can express our sorrow for you at this time. We're so sorry and we have been praying for you a lot the last few days and will continue to do so.
Showing 1 - 100 of 197 results
Make a Donation
in Darby O'Brien's name
Memorial Events
for Darby O'Brien
How to support Darby's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Darby O'Brien's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
