James C. O'Brien

September 21, 2017

James C. O’Brien

ATHOL- James C. O’Brien, 61, of Allen Street, died at home on Wednesday, September 20, 2017 following an illness, with family at his side

Born in Athol on February 27, 1956, he was a son of the late Bartlett and Ann (Laughton) O’Brien and grew up in Athol, graduating from Athol High School with the Class of 1975.

Following high school, James lived in Florida for a number of years where he worked in construction with his brother, Robert. He later moved to California for several years where he was a truck driver, and then returned to Massachusetts in 2000.

After returning to Massachusetts, James went to work for the L. S. Starrett Company in Athol.

James was an avid sports fan, especially for the New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox.

James is survived by his sons, James O’Brien (Jessica) of Iowa and Jason O’Brien of Nevada; three grandchildren from Iowa, Kaitlynn, Kennedy and Connor; sisters, Kathleen Lincoln(Burke), of California, Betty O’Brien of Athol, Patricia O’Brien of Texas, Alice Martin (Carl) of Texas, Mary Jardine (Rick) of Athol, Margaret Tzikas of Athol, Ellen May (Bruce) of Athol, Rosemary Mataska of Texas and Barbara O’Brien of California; brothers, Timothy O’Brien of Washington, William O’Brien of Athol, and Thomas O’Brien (Lianne) of Athol;  many nephews and nieces; his uncle and aunt, Robert and Joan O’Brien of Orange; and many cousins.

Besides his parents, James was predeceased by two brothers, Daniel O’Brien in 1986 and Robert P. O’Brien in 2004.

There are no calling hours.

A celebration of James’ life will be held at the Franco-American Club, 592 South Street, Athol, on Saturday, October 7th from noon to 3 p.m.

Donations in memory of James can be made to the donor’s choice.

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is directing the arrangements.

You may offer your sympathy online at www.wittyfuneralhome.com