James Lawrence O'Brien

James Lawrence O’Brien passed away peacefully on January 12, 2026, at UNC Memorial Hospital in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. He was the son of the Michael James O’Brien and Rose Mary Romba O’Brien, and the devoted husband of Jean Cochrane Wallace O’Brien, with whom he shared 51 years of marriage.

Born in Manhattan and raised in Queens, New York, James graduated from Brooklyn Preparatory High School and Fordham University. He later studied economics at New York University before beginning a career on Wall Street, where he focused on municipal bond markets.

After marrying Jean, the couple moved to fair Verona, New Jersey to start their family where they lived until 2017, when they moved to Fearrington Village, North Carolina. James was an avid sports fan who, despite his strong connection to New York, was particularly devoted to Boston sports teams. He also took special joy in watching his children and grandchildren compete. An enthusiastic reader of history, he made frequent trips to find new books for himself and for Jean. He also loved classical music—though it was just as likely that his Walkman played Dire Straits, ZZ Top or Haddaway during weekend jogs.

Whether vacationing at Caneel Bay, completing more than 20 Falmouth road races, or taking trips to Emerald Isle, James enjoyed unwinding at the beach where he built lasting memories with family and friends. He had a giving heart and especially cherished time spent with his grandchildren. Weekends often found him at the grill, surrounded by family—moments he deeply valued.

James is survived by his wife, Jean; his children, Stephanie Jean O’Brien; Elizabeth O’Brien Halstead and her husband, Eric James Halstead; and Richard Wallace O’Brien and his wife, Sarah Dobbs O’Brien. He is also survived by four grandchildren: Simon Alexander Halstead, Sydney Elizabeth Halstead, Jonas James O’Brien, and Sybil Isla O’Brien; as well as his sister, Rosanne Spence.

He was preceded in death by his parents and by his sister, Joan Simeone.

James Lawrence O’Brien will be remembered and deeply loved for his wit, humor and unwavering devotion to his family.

Family and friends are invited to a memorial service on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 1:30 pm at

Walker’s Funeral Home

11680 US Hwy 15 501 N

Chapel Hill, NC 27517

Photos and memories may be shared at: rememberingjim1941@gmail.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CORA Food Pantry:

https://www.corafoodpantry.org/ways-to-support/the-need/