Obituary of Phyllis Joyce O'Brien

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Phyllis Joyce O’Brien

March 10, 1941 – September 21, 2024

Passed away suddenly but peacefully at the Health Sciences Center on Saturday, September 21, 2024; Phyllis Joyce O’Brien of L’anse au Loup, Labrador; age 83. Left with loving memories, her husband of 62 years, Adelard and their four children: Rhoda (Paul Locke), Maurice (Loretta), Frederick, and Rosalind (Kirk Shields). She is also forever loved by her three grandchildren Colten Layden (Sabrina), Amy (Patrick) and Darcy O’Brien, and two treasured great-grandsons, Eli and Rio Layden.

Predeceased by her parents Antoine and Ethel Letemplier, brother Norman, sister-in-law Margaret Letemplier.  Phyllis was a loving big sister to her siblings and will be missed by Greta(Armand), Jack, Ann (Elzear), Stanley (Josie), Barry (Delphine), Joan (Pat), Arlette (Victor) andsister-in-law Odette. She was also a special part of her O’Brien family including brothers and sisters-in-lawRon (Olive), Alex (Kathleen), Reg (Ruby), Margaret (Wilfred), Kathleen (Jim), Eric(Caroline), Elzear (Ann-also her sister), Marcel (Alma). She leaves a multitude of nephews, nieces and friends to remember her fondly.

Mom was born in Blanc Sablon, Quebec and after a brief teaching career,settled happily with Dad in L’anse au Loup.Together they worked tirelessly building their family businesses. Her love of reading led to her most fulfilling career as Librarian at the public library.  She took quiet pride in knowing she touched the life of every child in the community during her 25 years there. She shared her love of music in giving countless hours to her church as their primary organist.  She was a reliable volunteer with other church duties, The Lions Club,Women’s Institute and her most loved role as Guider with Girl Guides of Canada.

Mom also found time to share her skills as an avid quilter, cook and gardener, known for her green thumb and love of flowers.

Mom faced her health care challenges with fierce determination to maintain independence, both at home and at Heritage Square Retirement Centre in Conception Bay South, where she and Dad have been residing since last year. Special thanks to all staff and new friends for excellent care and welcoming them as family.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Our Lady of Labrador parish in West St Modeste on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 2:00 PM, followed by inurnment at L’anse au Loup Community Cemetery. We will then welcome family and friends at Community Centre.

In lieu of flowers, donations will be gratefully accepted by Our Lady of Labrador Parish.

 A Mother's hug lasts long after she lets go.