Patricia "Patty" Louise O'Brien

Patricia "Patty" Louise O'Brien, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, in her hometown of Dayton, Ohio, surrounded by her cherished loved ones. Born on February 25, 1933, Patty lived a vibrant and fulfilling life, characterized by her feisty spirit, sassiness, and a penchant for fun.

Patty's career was marked by her dedication to management at Elder Beerman Department Store, where she balanced her professional life with the challenge of managing a large family. Her proudest accomplishments were undoubtedly her children and grandchildren, who served as a testament to her nurturing nature and fierce love.

A spirited and lively individual, Patty left a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. Whether it was her beautifully decorated swim caps and rain hats or her enjoyable outings at the beach, Patty brought a touch of creativity and joy to every occasion. She was known for her competitive edge, finishing first in her age group at the Air Force Marathon 5K Race, albeit with the help of a small shortcut. This playful nature lingered in her interests; she was a devoted sun-worshiper, relishing the warmth of sun-soaked days either at the beach or lounging by her backyard pool.

Each year, she looked forward to the celebrations of St. Patrick's Day and Christmas, transforming her home into a festive haven filled with decorations that truly reflected her infectious joy for life. Patty enjoyed the company of family and friends while savoring a good beer or wine, playing backyard volleyball, engaging in corn hole, and mastering the card game of Euchre—where she seemed to always find a way to win.

As a doting grandmother, she was affectionately known as "grandma" to her sweet angels: Danny, Andy, Oscar, Jessie, Kelley, Brian, Leslee, Tim, Kevin, Kyle, Chelsea, Colin, Drew, Meghan, Stephanie, and Scott, alongside her 21 great-grandchildren, who were a constant source of pride and joy for her.

Patty's legacy will be carried on by her loving children: Barbara Hemmelgarn, Connie (Brian Jarvis) O'Brien, Bill O'Brien, Erin O'Brien, Kristy (David Leo) O'Brien, Kelly (Ken) Maxwell, Holly Whalen and daughter in law Mona O'Brien. However, she is now reunited in spirit with her beloved husband, Thomas O'Brien, and her children Gary O'Brien, Tom O'Brien, Vicki Whalen, and Cami Whalen. She also joins her parents Julia McCowan and Louis Downey, along with her siblings Jackie Downey, Bill McCowan, Mary Ann McCowan, Jim McCowan, Tom McCowan, Bob McCowan, and Dan McCowan and son in law Jake Hemmelgarn.

Patty Louise O'Brien leaves a rich tapestry of love and laughter, woven through the lives of her family and friends. While we mourn her passing, we celebrate the vibrant life she lived and the countless memories she created. Her spirited presence will be deeply missed, but her love and laughter will continue to echo in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

To view the livestream of Patty's service click here.