Sandra K. O"Brien
Sandra Katherine “Sandy” O'Brien, 82, of 15 Forman Street, Bradford, passed away Wednesday, May 20, 2020, at Hamot Medical Center in Erie.
Born August 6, 1937 in Bradford, Sandy was the daughter of the late William and Elizabeth (Bunce) Grogan. Sandy grew up under the care of her grandmother Laura Grogan after losing her mother at an early age. She was a 1956 graduate of St. Bernard School where she loved to play tennis. After high school, Sandy worked as a bank teller at the Bradford National Bank.
Sandy soon met the love of her life, and married Daniel J. O'Brien, who survives her, on October 4, 1958 in the St. Bernard Church.
Sandy worked at Horizons Gift Shop as a store manager for over 20 years.
She was an active member of St. Bernard Church, Catholic Women's Club, Bradford Literary Club, Zonta, the Bradford Club, and the Ball and Chain Dancing Club.
Sandy and her husband Dan were well known for being central figures in the Bradford community, and they touched many people with their down to earth friendliness and generosity. Sandy was a voracious reader, and loved the Bradford Area Public Library. Sandy oversaw the award winning “Enchanted Garden” at her Forman Street residence where she often entertained family and friends and gave tours to garden club members who traveled to see her garden from far and wide. Sandy was an impeccable dresser and always impressed her family and friends with her unparalleled ability to accessorize.
Surviving in addition to her husband Dan, of 61 years, is one daughter: Susan (Jay) Koniak, of Salamanca, NY; three sons: Dr. Timothy (Nancy) O'Brien, of Jamestown, NY, Thomas (Terrie) O’Brien, of Bradford, Daniel O’Brien, of Charlotte, NC; nine grandchildren: Morgan O’Brien, Taylor (Gina) O’Brien, Timothy O’Brien, Jr., Amanda (Randall) Emborsky, Kaitlin O’Brien, Megan Koniak, Michael O’Brien, Anna O’Brien, Emily Koniak, and one great-grandchild expected to arrive later this year. Sandy was preceded in death by her parents.
The family invites relatives and friends to view a Celebration of Life for Sandra to be streamed online at www.hollenbeckcahill.com on Saturday May 23, 2020, at 11:00 am with Rev. Raymond Gramata, Pastor of St. Bernard Catholic Church, officiating. Burial will be in the St. Bernard Cemetery.
Memorials or contributions, if desired, may be made to the Bradford Area Public Library, 67 West Washington Street Bradford, PA 16701 or St. Bernard Church P.O. Box 2394, Bradford, PA, 16701.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
All Condolences -
So very sorry to hear of Sandy’s passing. One of my fondest memories was the day my mom & I spent at your garden. Most certainly the ‘Heavenly Garden’ is now blessed with a new & radiant flower. Take comfort in your many wonderful memories.
Sincerely,
Nancy Fire
— Nancy Fire
I am sorry to hear of Sandra''s passing. She gave so much to everyone. Her garden is delightful!
— Kay Hurley
Sue, I am sorry to hear about your mom. I will always remember her as a classy lady. Every time I pick out flowers each spring, I think of your wonderful backyard where we spent time as kids. Your mom was a ray of sunshine and cheerfulness. I always looked forward to taking to her.
— Kathryn Manecke
Tim and family we are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Your Mom will always be a part of everything you do and will ever be your hearts.
— Tom And Dana Lovecchio
I am so sorrry to hear of Sandy’s passing . I will miss her. She was always so diligent in keeping the 1956 classmates up to date. My condolences to Dan and her family
— Mary Martin Deal
My sincere condolances for your loss. Sandy always had a smile and cheerful greeting whenever we met. The garden & her caring way will always be remembered.
— Martha Simmons
Tim and family,
So sorry to hear of your loss. We feel you are part of our family. Please accept our deepest condolences.
— Marc & Amy Turner
Dan & Family, So very sorry to hear of Sandy''s passing. Even when she was in pain, she would call to inquire about Bill''s health and give comfort to me. It was much appreciated! You are all in our prayers. Cousins, Bill & Marlene Walb
— Bill & Marlene Walb
Obriens, as my mom, Mike, and I sat and listened to the lovely service, I had such fond memories of her. She was a second mom to us Everett kids, and a good friend to my parents. I am sad that she has passed but blessed to have had her in my life. Mr. Obrien, you spent your $100 well! Love to you all!! RIP, Sandy!
— Teri Everett
Dear Dan & Family, We were deeply saddened to learn the news of Sandy''s passing. We will always remember her as a lovely person and friend for so many years. Our hearts go out to you. Jim & Lisa Evans
— Jim & Lisa Evans
We are so sorry Dan & Family!
Sandy was like a Sister to us & we will miss her wonderful companionship.
Sandy was a great friend.
Love, Bill & Frannie
— Bill & Fran Runyan
We were so very sorry to hear of Sandy''s passing. She was such a special person, especially to my late father Douglas Robertson who was her cousin, but often expressed that she was like a sister to him. We wish the O''Brien family our deepest condolences.
— Nicole Robertson + Richard Garber + Family
My condolences to Dan, family and friends. Sandy was such a nice person and will definitely be missed. I can still see her coming to my exercise class dressed wearing a scarf, a sweater, and a smile. May she rest in peace.
— Suzanne Dittman
Dear Dan And
Families, we are sending our condolences and prayers for all during this time of sadness. We love you and wish we could be with you during this time. We send our love, prayers and hugs to all.
— Donna and Gus Gocella
How sad to read this morning that
Sandy had passed.
Beautiful lady who shared a wonderful life with you Dan. Peace be with you.
— Betty and Jerry Wight
Jay and Kay would like to express our sympathy to the O’Brien family a lovely girl who left many wonderful memories.she was a blessing.
— Jay and Kay rizzuti
Dan and family, we are so sad to hear this news but know she has returned home. Finding the right words that comfort at times like this is difficult but know our family is praying for your family. She will be greatly missed by many!
— Mark Randolph and the Randolph Family
Thinking of you Dan and entire O’Brien family. Sandy was a beautiful lady with a beautiful smile! She will be missed but hang onto those wonderful memories! ??
— Art and Sue Ewings
Dan,
I am deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Sandy. The memories of spending time with both of you at your home are treasured. Our class reunions where we would catch up on life with each other are dear to my heart as was Sandy and her joyful spirit. She will be missed by all and I pray for God''s comfort to be there for you and your family during this time. Focus on the happy times and all she brought to your life and everyone''s she impacted.
— Dorothy Lunday
So sorry for your loss. The entire O’Brien family shall remain in my thoughts and prayers.
— Dave Ackerman
Tim and family, we are sorry to hear of your mom’s passing, thinking of you. Jerry &Julie Smith Stanton
— Jerry & Julie Stanton
Dan and family, our sincere condolences to you all. Mom let us know of Sandy passing this morning. She always had a smile when I saw her. Mom and dad spoke fondly of you both. May good memories and the warmth of family comfort all.
— Joe Gocella (Gus and Donna’s son)
Dan and Family,
Mom called me about Sandy''s passing and we are devastated for your loss. We are shocked but know she is with Jesus. We cherish our memories of the time we spent at the gardens. We looked so forward to seeing them and spending time with you and Sandy. Praying for God''s comfort for all of the family during this difficult time.
Bonnie, Larry, Anastasia and Elena Wilder
— Bonnie Wilder
We are so very sorry to hear of Sandy’s passing. Her smile and warmth will be greatly missed. We loved her very much.
— Gene and Mary Grogan
So sorry to hear about the passing of Sandy. Sending my sincere condolences to Dan, Dr. Tim, and family.
— Charles Benninger
Dan and family, I am so sorry for your loss. She was a very special person and all my prayers and thoughts are with you.
Alex O''neil
— Alexandria E Oneil