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Kieran O'Brien Obituary
The youngest of four brothers, Kieran was born on August 12, 1973 in Lawrence Hospital in Bronxville, NY to Richard and Theresa O'Brien. He was baptized at St Joseph's Church of Bronxville, where he attended primary school. He then attended Mount Saint Michael Academy in the Bronx, eventually graduating from Roosevelt High School in Yonkers in 1991. He attained his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration at SUNY Utica where he graduated with distinction.
Kieran relocated to Houston, Texas shortly after graduation for an opportunity working in high finance banking loans. Approximately two years later, he moved to Clearwater, Florida to partner in ownership and operation of fuel service stations and other retail holdings.
While in Florida, Kieran enjoyed many years with his then long-time girlfriend and formed a special bond with her daughter. For the last several years he has been caring for his elderly mother, eventually moving back to New York into the house he grew up in.
Kieran was predeceased by his father Richard and his brother Andrew.
Kieran is survived by his mother Theresa; brother Teddy (Ali); brother Devery (Elma); his nephew Shane and niece Egan; his aunts Kathleen Henry, Sister Rose Andrew Egan and Kathleen Egan. He also leaves behind many other family members, including numerous cousins, as well as countless friends.
Kieran was an avid sports enthusiast and he loved to make the occasional wager. He had a sharp, intellectual mind and a quick wit. His memory was unmatched. He had an unfathomable wealth of knowledge in history, politics, music - in fact almost anything. This ability was particularly noticed while watching Jeopardy with Ma, with nearly every question answered correctly by him. He would also read Scriptures daily, enforcing his deep sense of faith and strong belief in God.
Kieran was known not only for his love of dogs, but also for the amount of love dogs had for him. His big heart was always unabashedly on display as he showed affection for his treasured dog Peaches and for Millie, everywhere he took them.
Kieran's love for his family, and especially his devotion to his mother, was unwavering. He was known for his fierce loyalty, defending and protecting all those close to him. He was a true friend who touched the lives of so many. He is missed today; he will be remembered forever.
Family and friends may gather at a respectful memorial service to be held on June 19, 2025 from 2p-7p at the home of his family - 22 Howe Place, Bronxville, NY 10708. A funeral mass will be held on June 20, 2025 at 10:45 AM at St. Joseph's Church 15 Cedar Street, Bronxville, New York 10708.
In lieu of flowers, donations made be made in his memory to Adopt-a-dog.org, or any dog rescue charity of your choosing.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Tomas Keogh
July 21, 2025
Sincere condolences to the O'Brien and Egan families on the sad passing of Kieran. I have been reading the messages of sympathie for Kieran and he was a great and kind person. He was a young man, taken from this life to soon. Regards from Tomas Keogh and all the Keogh family in Crickstown, Curraha, Co. Meath. Ireland. Our mam was Mary Jo Egan from Ferbane, Co. Offaly married to Tom Keogh. She was a first cousin of Kieran's mam, Teresa.
Maurice H. Curran
June 29, 2025
An Ode to My Best Friend
Kieran O'Brien was not just my best friend, he was Everybody's best friend; he knew how to make everyone feel important to them.
I had known Kieran his entire life, as we both grew up in the same neighborhood, but I became particularly close to Kieran in the last 30 years. He used to visit me often when I was in college in Boston, and after I got married, he regularly spent time with my wife and kids after we moved to Tampa and visited us on holidays.
In the last couple of years I would drive him to cancer treatments. Despite his diagnosis, he never got upset or angry about it, and always greeted life with a smile. We both had dissimilar digestive issues, and after my own brain surgery, he used to say, "Moe, every day you are slowly getting better and I am slowly getting worse." He knew he was dying.
I couple of months before he passed, he was telling friends "I'm on the final decent." The pain medications were not working any more and he knew his time was short. He stopped eating because the pain was so excruciating and was only pooping once a week: I watched as my best friend slowly wasted away.
The day before he died, his brother put him on the phone with his mother who was in rehab. He told her he was very sick. He told his mom that he loved her, and asked her to pray for him. She said she would.
On his last day, his doctor called him saying he was worried about the results of the last blood test. I heard the doctor tell him to come into the hospital either now or in the morning. Kieran said he would come in the morning.
He knew they were never going to let him out again. He had said that over and over in the last weeks. Kieran chose to go out on his own terms, at a time of his own choosing own his own feet (metaphorically speaking), as every warrior hopes to die with their boots on. And Kieran was a warrior.
Some have asked me if he ever said 'goodbye' to me. And I didn't realize it at the time, but about a week before he passed he told me that he loved me. I think that was his way of saying goodbye.
Kieran was everybody's best friend. He was genuinely interested in how people were doing, and was always thinking of others -- Even in extreme pain he was always asking how my kids and my wife were. He never forgot a birthday and kept track of everyone's graduations and weddings.
Kieran told me recently that he did not care about anything anymore, "money doesn't matter, nothing matters".
Kieran was my mentor, and taught me many important life lessons. Mourning is important -- as my used to tell me. But also, I am so grateful to have had Kieran as my friend. I am going to miss him. But I also know that I am a better person because of Kieran. I cherish the memories we shared, and thank God that Kieran was a part of my life.
-Maurie Curran, June 2025
Tracy Alvares
June 20, 2025
I didnt get to spend a lot of time with Kieran, but the times we did get to spend together were nothing but fun and laughs. He was kind, generous and had a big heart. One in a million. My condolences to his family and friends. Rest easy big guy. You will be missed.
Anne Egan Wagstaff
June 19, 2025
Kieran, we will miss you so much. You looked and seemed so tough, but in reality you were incredibly thoughtful and kind. If we ever needed help, you were there. I can still see you carrying my grandparents´ dresser up a flight of stairs, because we needed help. I remember you giving me a bracelet for Christmas one year when I was just a kid even though I had nothing to give in return (and you were only a few years older). In later years you were always there caring for Aunt Teci. This world will not be the same without you, but I know you are in a better place.
Sending all my love and prayers,
Your cousin Anne
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Stan V
June 19, 2025
They say "only the good die young". Well that is certainly the case here! Kieran was truly a good man that would brighten the room with his wit and charm! The room was always filled with laughter when he was in it! He will definitely be missed!!
Uncle Stan
Michelle Benson
June 19, 2025
Kieran,
This tree is planted in honor of your life that touched so many. May it grow strong and steady, a living tribute to your love, friendship, and the memories we'll always carry.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Erick, John and Michelle Kelecseny
Karen Duble
June 19, 2025
I met Kieran last year, visiting the Cape. What a lovely soul he was and always will be. A fun spirited person with a great sense of humor and clearly he had many friends who loved him dearly. He will be missed.
Rosie Hanniffy (Egan) and Rosemary Cleary Co. Offaly Ireland.
June 18, 2025
Our Deepest Sympathy to Theresa Teddy Devery and the extended Egan families on Kierans passing. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. May Kierans gentle Soul Rest In Peace.
Alfred Smith
June 17, 2025
I was very sorry to hear of Kieran's passing. He was a man of great physical stature, who could also easily command a room with his wit and wisdom. Kieran was a terrific conversationalist, who could offer a well-reasoned opinion on politics and world events, while at the same time offering a funny story about his family, or growing up in his neighborhood. He will be truly missed by those who knew him.
May he rest in peace.
Al Smith
Ann Fitzgerald
June 16, 2025
So sorry to hear of Kieran´s passing.
Keeping my cousin, Theresa, & the O´Brien family in our thoughts &
prayers.
Love,
Cousin, Ann Fitzgerald & family
Frank Spotorno
June 16, 2025
Dear friends,
Rarely do I feel the weight of loss as deeply as I do with the passing of a dear friend. Our time on this earth is but a brief chapter in the grand narrative of eternity. I've always believed that our Heavenly Father knew us intimately, even before the threads of life were woven in our mother's womb. Regardless of the length of our days, we're entrusted with a purpose that transcends our mortal bounds.
The eulogy I read resonated deeply, touching not just my heart but the very core of my soul - a rare and profound occurrence when someone departs this life. Though I've mourned many losses, Kieran's passing has left an indelible mark on me.
Our friendship blossomed over leisurely strolls with our dogs at Scout Field, where we shared tales of politics, history, and the thrill of world championship sporting events. These moments, though simple, were a testament to the bond we forged.
In honor of Kieran's remarkable life and his courageous journey, it's fitting that we celebrate his legacy. The news that 100 groves of trees will be planted in the Chippewa National Forest in Minnesota is a poignant tribute, symbolizing the enduring impact of his life. May he rest in peace, his memory forever etched in our hearts.
RIP, dear Kieran T. O'Brien.
Vonn Mannion
June 14, 2025
Deepest sympathy to all the family on the sad passing of Kieran may his soul rest in peace. My late mam and kierans mam are first cousins.
Martina & Dan Rice. Dunedin, Florida.
June 14, 2025
My sincere condolences to the O'Brien family on Kieran's passing. I met Kieran for the first time when he was a teenager. It was my first time visiting the US and I stayed with the O'Brien family for part of my trip. Kieran was very shy at that age. Many years later, Kieran came to visit me while both of us lived in Florida. He was a character! Larger than life. Myself and my husband still laugh at the stories he told us back then. Just reading the beautiful messages and memories of Kieran here is a testament to the beautiful soul he was. God bless Kieran and the whole O'Brien family.
Noeleen Hanniffy- Smith
June 13, 2025
Kieran's mom, Teresa is my mother's first cousin. When I emigrated to the U.S. from Ireland in the 1980's, the O'Briens welcomed me into their home with open arms. It was my first time away from home. I will be forever grateful to them for their kindness and generosity during such a pivotal time in my life.
From the moment I met Kieran. I knew he had the biggest heart. He had a tough exterior, but beneath it was a kind, gentle soul-a true teddy bear. He was smart, witty and always genuine. His love for animals was deep and unwavering; he couldn't bear to see any creature harmed or mistreated.
Among his many great qualities, what stood out to me most was his loyalty. If you were lucky enough to be part of his circle, Kieran would protect and stand by you without question.
The world has lost a truly special person. My heart goes out to Teresa, Ted, Ali, Devery and Elma. Please accept my deepest condolences during this very sad time.
Fly high with the angels, Kieran. You will be forever missed.
Ron Kachnic
June 12, 2025
You will truly be missed my friend !!
Gone too soon but never forgotten !!
Michelle Cantwell- Ellis
June 12, 2025
What a beautiful obituary for a beautiful person. I will forever remember Kieran for his warm smile, quick wit, sense of humour and fun but most of all I will remember Kieran for his kindness, gentleness and huge heart.
Our trips from Dublin to visit him in Florida and New York created life long memories I will continue to hold dear. He will be missed so deeply, but will live on in the memories and stories, of which there are plenty.
My heart is especially with Mrs. O' Brien, Teddy, Ali, Devery and Elma & wider family as they navigate this incredible loss. I wish I could be there in person to pay my respects but will remember him with Aidan while Dennis is there in person.
Rest in peace Kieran, free from pain. Thank you for all the years of kindness and love x
Luke
June 11, 2025
Kieran and the whole family was such a constant fabric in my upbringing. I remember fondly taking trips to Jones Beach and simple trips through Bronxville with his mom telling me to shut up and "get in the car cause we´re late." Kieran´s wit later on was always something I would seek to hear. Days and dogs at Scout´s. Miss you, man.
Chris Sullivan
June 11, 2025
RIP Super K...you were all heart!
Chris Daleo
June 11, 2025
I went to school at St. Joseph´s with Devery and Kieran was a year behind us. I am so sorry for your loss. He was a great kid. Your lovely mother may remember my mom Cathy who passed in 2023. I´ve had a tough time the past 2 years losing my wife to cancer, my mother and mother in law. I do get down to Bronxville fairly often as my Aunt is still there. It would be great to see you again.
JOHN RILEY
June 11, 2025
John Riley
YOU WILL BE MISSED MY FRIEND & YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!! R.I.P
Ailish Cantwell
June 11, 2025
Sending much love and support to you all on the loss of your beloved son/brother/friend Kieran. A much loved individual who we had the pleasure of meeting on numerous occasions. Our dear brother in law Dennis Ellis regaled us of their childhood friendship that lasted well beyond adulthood. We feel for you all at this incredibly difficult time. With sincere condolences and prayers Cathal, Ailish, Eoin & Ava Kavanagh (Cantwell).Dublin, Ireland
Dennis Ellis
June 11, 2025
Fare thee well, old friend. Under that tough exterior was a huge heart, and a generous soul. It will be impossible to forget someone who gave us so much to remember.
David Rosendahl
June 11, 2025
My condolences, I remember Seeing him in years past, at Scout's Field and around the neighborhood. Always greeting me with a smile.
Tracy
June 11, 2025
You had quite the sense of humor my friend. Always giving me a hard time about my 9ers to your love for Jake and our dogs. Rest in pain free peace my friend. You will be missed love you
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