John F. O'Brien

John Francis O'Brien, 93, of Pensacola, Florida was promoted to heaven on September 16, 2023. He was the husband of Nancy O'Brien. They were blessed to share 50 wonderful years of marriage together.

Born in Lynn, Massachusetts, he was the son of William and Mary O'Brien. He completed the Officer Course at Command and General Staff College in 1970; got his Bachelors of Science from St. Benedict's College in 1971, both while in the Army. He graduated from Liberty Bible College in 1983 with a Masters of Theology and received his Masters of Science in Counseling and Human Development from Troy State University when he was 59.

He entered the US Army at the age of 17, worked his way up through the enlisted ranks until he was selected for Officers Candidate School. In 1958 he was promoted to 2nd Lt. and proceeded to excel in many positions of leadership, building men which was his passion especially once giving his heart to Jesus in 1973. He retired as a Lt. Col at the end of 1973 with 25 years in service. Following John's retirement he proceeded to hold many different positions in the civilian workforce over the next 40 years. He managed a manufacturing company and then a service company fully staffed by physically challenged employees. In 1981 the O'Briens moved to Pensacola so John could attend Bible college where he later served as Vice President. He went on to establish a foster home for incorrigible young men giving them a second chance to succeed in life. He and his wife served as missionaries in Ireland briefly; and in his mid-70's he was the Director of a men's rehab program until he retired at the age of 82 to spend more time with his family.

John (known as Jack in his later years) was a vibrant member of Upward Church where he was dearly loved and respected by young and old alike. He always had a kind, encouraging word of wisdom and loved giving out helpful quotes or teachings to everyone he cared about. He was especially drawn to the younger generation, affirming them and inspiring them to be their best selves and to live out the destiny God has for their lives. Over their years together, Jack and Nancy loved traveling to spend time with their family who were in the Army, their favorite destination being Korea where John revisited locations where he fought during the Korean war. They also enjoyed cruising and traveled to many different countries. Jack was an avid football fan and tried to improve his game of golf often, especially during their years in The Villages.

He is survived by his wife Nancy O'Brien, daughter, Meghan Wilson, husband, Chris Wilson, and their children, Abigail, Annie, Amanda, Audrey, Andrew, Adam, Alex, Amelia and Aaron; son Michael O'Brien, wife, Tina, grandson, Sean, wife, Kimberly, great grandchildren, Lillie, Aiden and Liam; son Kevin O'Brien, wife Carolyn, children Ethan and Kate; daughter Melissa and her children Benjamin, Brennan and Lauren; brother, Bill and his children, Barry, Erin and Molly and their children. He was predeceased by his father and mother, Bill and Mary O'Brien, brother Jim and sister, Molly.

On Friday, the committal service will be held at Barrancas National Cemetery for family and close friends. The celebration of life will be held at Upward Church on Saturday October 14, at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Missions Program of Upward Church, Pensacola.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.EasternGateMemorial.com for the O'Brien family.