Dennis P. O'Brien

1948 - 2025

NORTH KINGSTOWN, RI- Dennis P. O'Brien, Lt., RISP (Ret.), affectionately known as OB, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at the age of 77. He was the beloved husband of Rosalba Rose (Ferrero) O'Brien, with whom he shared 55 wonderful years of marriage.

Born in Queens, New York, Dennis was the son of the late Ernest and Mary O'Brien. He was raised in Elmont, NY, and graduated from Holy Cross High School in Flushing, Queens, in 1966. After graduation, he proudly served in the United States Navy from 1967 to 1971 during the Vietnam War. In recognition of his honorable service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal.

While stationed in the Great Lakes region, Dennis met the love of his life, Rose. They married and eventually settled in Newport, Rhode Island, where Dennis was stationed. Soon after, they made their permanent home in North Kingstown, RI, where they remained for over 50 years, building a life rooted in love, family, and community.

In 1971, Dennis began a distinguished career with the Rhode Island State Police. Over the course of nearly 25 years, he served with honor and integrity, ultimately retiring as a highly respected and decorated lieutenant. During his time with the State Police, Dennis earned his bachelor's degree from Roger Williams University - reflecting his dedication to personal growth and professional excellence.

Following his retirement from the RISP, Dennis became head of safety and security for Hood's Construction in Uxbridge, MA, a role he held for over nine years. In 2012, he joined Paolino Properties, where he worked in security and continued part-time well into his 70s. Known for his tireless work ethic, loyalty, and strength, Dennis remained active until the age of 75. His life was a true testament to service, perseverance, and devotion to his country, his community, and most of all, his family.

Dennis was the loving father of Donya L. O'Brien (partner, Bettina Hindin) of Roslyn, NY, and Dennis P. O'Brien, Capt., PPD (wife, Catherine) of Coventry, RI. He was the cherished Papa of

Conor O'Brien, RISP; Hudson Kaufer; Brendan O'Brien, PPD; and Saveria O'Neill. Nothing brought Dennis more joy than being surrounded by his family - whether grilling in the backyard, swimming in the pool, or proudly competing in the annual Salem Dr. Family Horseshoe Tournament. He was also an avid golfer who especially cherished time on the course with his son and grandsons.

Dennis is also survived by his siblings Ernest O'Brien, Maureen Ricardi, Mary Ellen Maguire, and Joseph O'Brien, and was predeceased by his brother, Kevin O'Brien. He leaves behind many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends who will miss his steady presence, humor, and generous spirit.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 14, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Fagan-Quinn Funeral Home of Patrick Quinn Funerals & Cremations, 825 Boston Neck Rd., North Kingstown. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Francis de Sales Church, 381 School St., North Kingstown.

Burial with full military honors will follow at the Rhode Island Veteran's Memorial Cemetery in Exeter.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Amedisys - Hearts At Home, and Integra Home Health Care for their exceptional compassion, support, and care during Dennis's final journey.

In lieu of flowers, donations in OB's memory may be made tohttps://www.ritroopers.org/

Kindly visit www.PatrickQuinnFuneralsandCremations.com for information and online condolences.