John Brian O'Brien

1950 - 2026

John Brian O'Brien, 75, of Big Spring, TX, passed away on March 27th, 2026, surrounded by loved ones at his home.
He married his high school sweetheart, Jane (Oppegard) O'Brien, in 1970, and together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and supporting those around them.
He served in the United States Army after being drafted during the Vietnam era, working as a mechanic and being briefly deployed in Germany. He later spent 40 years with Union Pacific Railroad as an engineer, running trains across West Texas.
He was a capable and resourceful man who was never afraid to take on a project. Over the years, he restored cars, worked on vehicles, and helped repair and improve homes for family and others. He often said he learned these skills because he could not afford to pay someone else when he was younger.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jane O'Brien; his sons, Jeff O'Brien, Jason O'Brien and wife Jenny; his grandchildren, Rose and Gus; his brother Paul O'Brien and extended family including in-laws, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lillian Penton and brother, Will O'Brien.
He will be remembered for his work ethic, his ability to solve problems, and his dedication to his family. His words of encouragement, "At-a-boy!," "At-a-girl!" and "Right on the chilly,"remain lasting memories for those who knew him.
No memorial service is planned. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.