Veronica Lillian O'Brien

Veronica lived a life anchored in faith, with a deep love for her family and a firm belief in the values of kindness, respect, and perseverance. She often turned to 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, reminding those around her that love is patient, kind, and always protects. These words were more than scripture to her—they were the foundation of how she lived her life and how she raised her children. Her faith was not just in words, but in action. She spent her days as a nurturing mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, always making sure her family felt valued and loved. She was a constant source of strength and comfort, offering prayers, wisdom, and a warm embrace to all who needed it.

Veronica retired after 25 years working for the State of Washington, Department of Employment Security. She believed in the power of unity and the rights of everyone. Veronica was a lifelong supporter of unions and in the fair treatment of all workers, no matter their job or background. She always felt strength in standing together for the common good.

Veronica was the military wife of Raymond J. O’Brien, a Korean and Vietnam Veteran. She has a special place in her heart for those who serve their country, whether in military uniform, law enforcement, fire fighter, National Park Service or other forms of service. She knew the sacrifices made by men and women in uniform, and she expressed her appreciation often. She understood that true service to others often meant putting one’s life on the line. Our family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the dedicated men and women of Lacey Fire District 3. Thank you for your tireless work, selfless dedication and for always being there for our mom and dad, Raymond and Veronica O’Brien.

Veronica was the proud matriarch of a large and loving Irish family, which included children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In particular, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren where a source of great joy and often reminded them the importance of love, faith and family. She reveled in the joy of seeing her family grow and thrive and always made sure everyone knew they were important to her.

While we mourn her passing, we celebrate the life of a woman whose faith, love and service will continue to inspire us. She left a deep mark on our hearts and we will carry forward the lessons she taught us.

Veronica was preceded in death by her loving husband Raymond J. O’Brien and her infant son Patrick O’Brien. Veronica is survived by her sister Florence Sauer (Jerry), five children Erin Pratt (Fred), Suzanne O’Brien (Fred Price), Frank O’Brien (Lori), Jeanne Woodul (William) and Brian O’Brien (Marlee). Her loving 15 grandchildren and adoring six great-grandchildren will miss her as well as countless other family members and friends whose lives she touched. A warm note of fondness goes to all her friends in her Jubilee neighborhood and at Capital Place, Olympia, WA.

Interment will be at Willamette National Cemetery at a future date buried with her beloved husband Raymond J. O’Brien.

Veronica’s funeral mass will be at Saint Michael Catholic Church, downtown Olympia, Thursday, March 27th, 12:00 pm. A celebration of life will be immediately following the mass in the parish gathering space.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Saint Michael Parish, Olympia, WA.

“Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14)

“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.” Thomas Campbell