JOHN A. "OB" O'BRIEN

O’BRIEN, JOHN A. “OB”, 71, of Cranston, passed away peacefully with lifelong friends by his side on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at Rhode Island Hospital, Providence. 

Born in Providence, he was the son of the late John C. and Grace (Girardi) O’Brien.

In his early years, John was a student at St. Augustine School, Providence. He then went on to attend Classical High School, Providence where he was an accomplished athlete competing in Track and Field and Football. He then went on to earn his Bachelors Degree from the University of Rhode Island. A gifted athlete and scholar, John worked as an English Teacher at Hendricken High School, Warwick where he was also a Track and Field Coach for many years. 

John was a talented writer and passionate fan of all sports. He especially had a love of horse racing. John was a lifelong advocate for the fair treatment of jockey and equine alike. Later in his life, John worked at the former Lincoln Park where he was a Racing Steward and Lead Out. He enjoyed dinners at Twin Oaks and Mike’s Kitchen, Jameson Irish Whiskey, watching sporting events, and lively conversation. He will be remembered as a source of vast knowledge, quick wit, and loyal friendship. OB will truly be missed.

He was the beloved brother of Elizabeth McGarry of Cranston, and the late Grace Shulz, Ruth McElhiney, and Lucille K. Hall. John is also survived by many dear longtime friends. 

A Visiting Hour will be held on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 from 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM in the Iannotti Funeral Home AT MAPLE ROOT, 2000 Nooseneck Hill Road (ROUTE 3), Coventry. Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM in St. Augustine Church, 20 Old Road, Providence. Burial and committal prayers to follow at St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston.

In lieu of flowers,

donations can be made in John’s memory to the

Parkinson’s Foundation (Parkinsons.Org).

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