O’Brien, Rita Mary, née Kinsella. It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother who, fortified by the sacraments of Holy Mother Church, left us peacefully on September 13, 2024 at the age of 90.
Born to R. Joseph Kinsella and E. Irene Kinsella, Rita grew up in St. Louis and attended St. Alphonsus “Rock” High School. In 1953 she married Thomas G. O’Brien, and they raised six children.
Rita was a devout Catholic who was happy to serve each of her parishes through the years, from “guitar Mass” choir, to photographer/archivist, to sacristan at her senior residence.
Even while still employed at the IRS – but especially since her retirement – Rita embraced new activities with gusto: writing, upholstery, Irish dancing, Senior Olympics, guitar, banjo, and more. She was known for her warmth and hospitality.
Rita’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and the joy she brought to those around her. We are profoundly grateful for the time we had with her and will carry her memory in our hearts forever. She is deeply missed.
Rita is survived by her sisters Joan Hunter and Carol May, and five children: Mary Anne (Marv) Friedlander, Noreen O’Brien (James McNally), Thomas F. O’Brien, Francis O’Brien (Ellen Hinkebein), and Margaret (Theodore) Dolter; ten grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.
She is predeceased by her brother Donald Kinsella, ex-husband Tom, daughter Caroleen Joan Kerth O’Brien, and grandson Brian Friedlander.
Kutis Funeral Home on Lemay Ferry will host a wake from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, September 17. Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, September 18 at Mary, Mother of the Church, 5901 Kerth Road, followed by interment at Resurrection Cemetery.
I never met Mrs. O’Brien but I served with her son Tom in the Navy. Carl Jung said, “Children are educated by what the grown-up is and not by their talk”. Tom was an outstanding friend, coworker & Shipmate there is no doubt in my mind he got these attributes from his mother. Rest in Peace Mrs. O’Brien and my condolences to your family on their loss. GOD Bless 🙏🏻
Rita Mary O’Brien was a kind, sweet and lovingly devoted woman.
My sorrow is with her large family and her other friends.
I especially offer my sympathy and love to Peggy, Ted and their children.
Rita Mary O’Brien .. Rest In Peace.
Rita Marie How Santen
MMOC Parishioner
O’Brien Family,
Your Mother was one of my favorite friends from IHM church.
I sang in the Saturday/Sunday choir with her and she always brought joy to those around her. I’m so sorry for your loss and know she is among the angels singing!
Yes, she loved singing and raised us with lots of music in the house (including lessons on piano, violin and clarinet.). Thank you for your kind words.
On behalf of the Schnieders family I would like to express our deepest sympathy to your family. I remember your sweet mom and know she was a dear friend of my mom, Charlene.
Mary Beth! How kind of you. Your mom’s friendship meant a lot to our mom. We still remember her Christmas tree tradition with a smile. Thank you.
Praying for you and your family Frank
Comedians tell lots of jokes about the mother-in-law. In my case, Rita welcomed me into the O’Brien clan along with her siblings and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. There always seemed to be a new relative popping up to be introduced. My only complaint is that when Rita and I took walks together, I had to ask her to slow down. She is among the blessed.
Thanks, Marv! She was a gift.
Deep and sincere condolences to the entire O’Brien family.
Helen, thank you.
Frank. You and your family are in my prayers. Just knowing you I am certain your Mom was a wonderful person. God Bless.
Chris
Rita was a breath of fresh air. Always kind, pleasant and welcoming. When she moved from Immaculate Heart we missed her very much. She brought joy and service. Sending my love and prayers to her family, to her sister Joan and nephew Jim.
Thank you, Debbie!
Dear Aunt Rita, Although we will miss your smile and true caring compassion for life and others, we will never forget how you touched our lives. When Brian brought me to St Louis and we announced our engagement you quickly wrapped a Tupperware Pitcher to extend your welcome and happiness for us. Several years later, we visited with our little girl and again you made sure Brianna felt special by giving her a handmade little purse. So, our prayers, knowing you were welcomed in heaven with a return of all the gifts you gave to others especially God’s open arms with ever lasting life. Love & Blessings O’Brien Family. Ann-Marie & Brian (and Brianna & Jason)
Thank you, Ann-Marie! That was Mom, always made each person feel special.
Thank you, Ann-Marie and Brian. That was Mom, always made each person feel special.
I am deeply, deeply saddened to hear of Aunt Rita’s passing. She was a very special woman. My family left St. Louis long ago. When my Dad passed, Aunt Rita came down to Houston to be there for my Mom and our family. She was a great comfort to me at a difficult time, in spite of how long we had been away. She was as loving, caring and comforting as she could be. She will live in my heart. My prayer for my cousins is that the Lord will ease your sadness, and know that she is in heaven. God Bless.
Thank you, cousin! My brothers and sisters appreciated your emails.
Our parents treasured their time together and shared many long laughs together.
To a truly admirable grandmother who always shown me and my 3 girls nothing but love and support with open arms. Grandma Ree we will forever miss you and love you and THANK YOU. You and Aunt Kerth take care of your great granddaughter, my baby girl Jynese Lemya Enaja King. You called her Jyn Jyn and she thought that was cute. Your eldest granddaughter Lynnese
Rita extended herself to everyone around her. She wanted to help them in any way that she could. She was a person for others. That was her standard.
Dan, thanks for your comment and for coming on both Wednesday and Thursday. We appreciate that.
Dan, thanks for your comment and for coming on both Wednesday and Thursday. We appreciate that.
Mrs.Rita Obrien was my mother in law and I will always cherish the times I spent with her! Always to speak of her to her great grandchildren who I wish could’ve gotten to know her more. Love and prayers to the Obrien family . God has called another one of his angels and she has her arms wrapped around kerth and her great granddaughter JyJy. We are here for you🫶🏻🙏🦋
It was 4.5 billion years ago God made the earth. And it only took days.
It took God another 4.2 billion years to come up with Aunt Rita.
Thanks, Mike!
To Rita’s family:
May dear Mrs O’Brien Rest In Peace in God’s loving arms.
Rita was a friend of my Mom, Eileen Book, from IHM parish choir and “Rock” high school. She was so helpful to me when my Mom passed. I’ll always have a special place in my heart for dear
Mrs Rita O’Brien. ❤️