John Steven O'Brien

John Steven "Steve" O'Brien, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home with his loved ones on April 23, 2026, at the age of 78.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at St. Francis Xavier Cabrini Catholic Church, officiated by Reverend Mikel Polson. Interment will follow at Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Cemetery. Visitation will take place that morning from 8:30 AM until 10:45 AM at Vincent Funeral Home of Kaplan.

Steve was born on February 16, 1948, to Raywood Peter O'Brien and Berneda Mary Hardy O'Brien. He was the fourth of ten children in a close-knit family he fondly referred to as "the 10 little Indians." His love for his siblings was unwavering, built on a lifetime of shared memories, strength, and devotion. As time passed and their numbers grew fewer, that bond only deepened. Even as only four remained, he held each of them close in his heart, never letting their connection fade.

A devoted family man, Steve was a steady and guiding presence in the lives of those he loved. He was known for his strength, his firm yet loving nature, and a voice that carried both authority and compassion. Those who knew him understood that even his sternness was rooted in deep care. He left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered, and his familiar sayings and humor will live on in the hearts of his family forever.

Steve's greatest joy was his wife, his children and nothing brought him more pride than being a grandfather. He loved each of his grandchildren deeply and took great joy in watching them grow, offering guidance, laughter, and unwavering support. His presence in their lives was constant and meaningful, leaving each of them with memories they will carry forever.

His bond with his only granddaughter, Cedera, affectionately known to him as "Big Suga," was especially profound. She held a unique and irreplaceable place in his heart. Their connection was filled with love, pride, and tenderness, and she brought him a special kind of happiness that words can scarcely capture. The love he had for her was evident to all who witnessed their relationship.

Steve's life was a testament to love, sacrifice, and quiet strength-a light that guided his family and those around him. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy of love will continue to live on through the generations he cherished so deeply.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 50 years, Fannie O'Brien; his daughters, Philana O'Brien, Narcissa Randolph (Anthony), Stephanie O'Brien, and JonJanee' O'Brien; his son, Van Clement Jr. (Twana); his grandchildren, Cavan, Dartevin, Cedera, and Caleb; his brothers, Elliott O'Brien (Katherine) and Richard O'Brien (Beverly); his sister, Elizabeth Living (Johnny); his brother-in-law, Henry Shelvin; and his sister-in-law, Carolyn O'Brien.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raywood and Berneda O'Brien; his siblings, Carol Broussard, Raymond O'Brien, Brenda O. Shelvin, Neil O'Brien, Danny O'Brien, and Lydia Bernard; his niece, Kimberly O'Brien; his sisters-in-law, Anna M. O'Brien and Marvel O'Brien; his brother-in-law, Danny Bernard; and other beloved family members who welcomed him into eternal rest.

Steve's love was like a candle-it consumed itself to light the way for others. Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in the memories he leaves behind. Don't cry because it's over; smile because it happened.

You toiled hard, now you rest. We are proud you are ours, because you are truly the best.

A heart of gold stopped beating, two loving eyes now rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us-He only takes the best.

All funeral arrangements are being conducted by Vincent Funeral Home - Kaplan (337) 643-7276.