I just learned a few days ago of Virginia's passing.  I am so sorry, and am very sorry to have missed the funeral.  I shall miss "Big Red."  She was a good friend of my mother's from the Ross Valley Players, where the two of them spent countless hours, whooping it up and sharing the marvelous wit they both possessed and respected in each other.  Virginia was vivacious and fun, and I had a ball every time I was with her.  I remember her babysitting me when I was six.  I'm glad I called her a year or two ago and had a good chat.  Brad, Sean, Barry, and Rick -- I have the most wonderful memories of all of you, and loved your mother a lot.  My love and condolences to you, Buffie Eilert Grewal, aka "Little Red."

To laugh often and much;
to win the respect of intelligent people
and the affection of children,
to leave the world a better place,
to know even one life has breathed easier
because you have lived,
this is to have succeeded.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

Our Grandmother and Grandfather, Lura & Bob Flynn are singing with you again.  Love to your whole family, and our friend Sean.  Jen & Claire Pokas

I am so saddened to hear about the passing of Virginia. My heart goes out to Sean, Barry, Brad, Rick and the rest of the O'Brien family. Virginia was part of my wonderful memories of growing up in Marinwood. I remember asking my parents if I was related to that crazy red haired lady that made me laugh so much! Truly having the gift of the gab, I fondly remember back in high school and when coming home during college vacations - running into her at Cala Foods and knowing it would be a minimal 20 minute conversation of catching up, hearing about the family, and her always asking about my life & always proudly talking about her boys. Always full of energy, wit, and a dramatic flare - I will truly miss Mrs. O' - one of a kind.

~Some people walk in our lives for just a moment,but stay in our hearts forever~
Im very glad that god had it in his plans for us to cross paths Ginny, we had a lot of amazing laughs and good times together that are now memories i will cherish forever.May you be resting in paradise now Big Red.Im never going to forget the little saying you would always say to me "See this finger see this thumb see this fist you better run" Love you lots doll. My thoughts and prayers are with you

Virginia will always be missed! But her cheerful spirit will always remain in our hearts!

Your Mom was truly inspirational to me!  Whenever we met, she always had a big smile, a twinkle in her eyes, and a positive story to share!  I thank her for playing the organ at my beloved Grandmother's funeral.  I was so grief stricken that day, and as we were walking out of the church, low and behold, I see Barry O'Brien's Mom, with her big contagious smile.  I instantly felt comforted  by her presence!  She was truly a bright ray of sunshine to me each and every time our paths crossed!  She will be truly missed, by all who loved her.

Oh man....sad day!! I just found out. Paul Wilson got word somehow. Dear Lord please guide our amazing Virginia to all the Wilson's, Tracy's and O'Brien's already with you. Let her onto THE IRISH CLOUD so they can be one again. My wife Susan and I loved you being at our wedding weekend ten years ago today. I thank you GE-GE for always being so warm and fun and funny with me. You were my rock when Jackie passed. To the O.B. Boys. We all love you and send our support now and forever. I'm so sorry for all our loss. I know I moved to the great northwest out of sight out of mind but please send an email time to time and I will. Love Tim and Susan Tracy parents of Riley and Quinn. TimT905@Gmail.com

A candle lit in your memory and in your honor.

So Sorry to hear about Aunt GiGi's passing. I hope everyone's Doing ok. Our Prayers are with you

Oh, my goodness, I am so saddened to hear of the passing of your mom - she is such a sparkly memory from my childhood in Marinwood, and I remember her fondly in Steel Magnolias at RVP. She leaves us all a wonderful and talented family.

One of the funniest and warmest people I have ever known. She always had that twinkle in her eye and always made you laugh no matter what was going on in your life.I guess God needed a laugh with all that is going on in the world and HE chose Virginis.

God bless her and her beloved family
P.J. Scott

It's time to Ring down the curtain on a successful performance.  Rest easy, Mrs. O'Brien.  Love and prayers to your family.  Go Trojans!!!  Kathy Flynn Crane

As you know I sat next to mom and dad for years at USF basketball games. Your dad was a true gentleman and I think of him often.  Your mother was always a "kick" to talk to during the games.  She spoke of her sons and grandchildren.  She shared the story of her father's comment after she met your dad.  I always looked forward to seeing and talking with her.  A vivacious and gracious light is gone.  I shall miss her dearly

Stephen Drew Dinuba Calif.

 Ginny O'Brien and I have been close friends for over 40 years. She is a wonderful, talented and witty person. I miss her so much. Her presence always cheers me and sharing a friendship with Ginny is like a constant breath of spring. 
To her family, Bill and I offer our prayers and condolences. She will be long remembered by all who knew her.
Blessings from the Coverdales; Bill, Cathy and children Christine and Bill,III.

I am so sorry for your loss, you are all in my thoughts and prayers.  We have grown up with many wonderful "O'Brien" stories that will always bring a smile to my face.

God Bless,

Julie O'Brien Agrella

Forty-plus years ago Virginia and then Marin County D-A, Roger Garety, played my parents in a Ross Valley Players production by Neil Simon. I hardly remember the play, but oh, do I remember the players, especially Virginia.  I was too young to drive, so she took me to and from rehearsals, practicing our lines and telling me hilarious stories about her 5 boys and about her life. She was a comic genius, someone I will never forget. Break a leg, Virgina. The stage in Heaven definitely needs more characters like you.

Mrs. O'Brien, I as I knew her, was someone with a huge heart and a larger than life personality. She will forever have a special place in my heart. I imagine she is singing her heart out in heaven, directing a new play. My prayers go out the family. I deeply sorry for your loss.

Oh Mrs. O' - what a fine, fun and fabulous path you walked. Always a twinkle and wink in your eye - and never a moment that wasn't celebrated -whether for it's joy or its absurdity. You're life was, indeed, a Cabaret - and no one who met you will ever forget you. Much love to my brother's from another mother Barry, Rick, Brad & Sean  xoxo

I am so sorry for your loss. Thinking about you all.I remember your Mom fondly!!

Virginia was a dear friend during our years at Valley Baptist Church. We raised our children together, sang together, and had deep mutual
admiration. Ginny brought so much joy and class with her inimitable style, lighting up a gathering with her presence. My deepest sympathies to her family. Someone very special is gone, but waiting for us to be reunited in Heaven with the Lord. Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Take your much deserved curtain call.
With my love, Kathy Lewis

OBITUARY

Virginia R. O'Brien

September 11, 1927 – March 17, 2013

Keaton’s Mortuary

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