Kathryn Ann (Daniels) O’Brien, 74, passed away peacefully at her home in Brielle on Thursday, December 29, 2016, surrounded by her four children.

Born in Staten Island to Catherine & James Daniels, Kathy was the second of nine children. She attended St. Catharine Grammar School and St. Rose High School, all while helping raise her younger siblings. After high school, while working in NYC, she met her husband Jack O'Brien and together they moved to Wall Township where she lived for over 35 years. Kathy was the consummate hostess and, whether wearing her favorite kitchen apron or a smart cocktail dress, would glide into any room with ease and grace. Her style and taste were undeniable, and after her children were grown, she began a wonderful career in retail (Epstein’s, Talbots, Kate & Co.), helping others bring flair and beauty into their everyday lives. Kathy loved going to the gym, early morning walks on the boardwalk and long days on South End beach, gardening, and traveling. She never missed a sale, always had a coupon, and certainly couldn’t pass up a good bargain! But nothing brought more joy to her life than her beloved family, who she loved dearly. Caring mother, loving grandmother, wonderful sister, favorite aunt, dearest friend - she will be missed by all who knew her.

Kathy was predeceased by her parents, sister Patricia Sprengel, and brother Robert Daniels. She is survived by her four children- Lauren O’Neill, Kara O’Shaughnessy & husband Michael, John O’Brien, and Kevin O’Brien & husband Mark Norkus; her grandchildren - Mark O'Brien, Luke, Ava, and Max O'Shaughnessy, and James and Jude O'Neill; her siblings- Marie Betts, Lillian Daniels, Fred Sprengel, James Daniels, Ellen (Ely) Daniels, William Daniels & wife Cheryl, Barbara Daniels & husband Ronald Miller, and Beth Burdge & husband Neal; her dear aunt Rose Walsh; and her many beloved cousins, nieces & nephews. Kathy was blessed to have many devoted friends throughout all of her life, and their support & friendship meant the world to her and her family.

Visitation will be at O’Brien Funeral Home, Wall, on Monday, January 2nd from 1-5pm. Funeral Mass will be offered at St. Denis Church, Manasquan, on Tuesday, January 3rd at 9:30am (please go directly to the church). In lieu of flowers, donations in Kathy’s memory are encouraged to VNA Hospice of Central Jersey, 1100 Wayside Road, Tinton Falls, NJ 07712.
For more information, visit www.OBrienFuneralHome.com.