James L. O'Brien, Jr.

James L. O’Brien, Jr. passed away peacefully in his home on April 12, 2025 at the age of 77. He was born on February 13, 1948 in New Orleans, LA. “Jim” or “Jimmy” as he was affectionately known by his family and friends was a resident of Marrero for the last 32 years. Jim was a proud graduate of Redemptorist High School where he was a basketball and football player given the nickname “TDO” or “Touchdown O’Brien” by his teammates. Throughout the years, he looked forward to reminiscing with his high school friends at their many class reunions. He also graduated from Loyola University New Orleans with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. He proudly served our country in the U.S. Navy as a radioman and continued his love of short-wave radios by being a member of the Delta DX Ham Radio Club of New Orleans. Jim furthered his passion of ham radios by being one of an elite group of people that had actually contacted every country in the world via ham radio. After his military service he joined the New Orleans Police Department where he was a member of the tactical unit. Upon retiring from the police department, he established Tujays Janitorial Service, Inc., and served many businesses throughout the New Orleans metropolitan area for the last 46 years. In 1972 he met the love of his life, Joan, and married her in December. Over the last 52 years they enjoyed a wonderful life of extensive travels, trying out new restaurants, and spending time with family and friends. Jim was the beloved husband of Joan Smith O’Brien, father of Christopher L. O’Brien (Michelle) and Kevin J. O’Brien; grandfather of Jack H. O’Brien (Kallie), Austin J. O’Brien, Megan E. O’Brien and Cassidy L. O’Brien; brother of Kathleen O. Watzke (the late Leon) and brother-in-law of Betty R. O’Brien, Sharon S. Kospelich (Russell), Denise S. Smith and Paul S. LeBlanc (Margie). He was the son of the late Rosemary Stephens O’Brien and James L. O’Brien, Sr.; preceded in death by his brother, Patrick M. O’Brien, and sisters Rosemary O. Legnon and Vicki O. Fuchs (the late John), sisters-in-law, Victoria S. Mire (the late John) and Jacquelyn S. LeBlanc. Survived by a host of nieces and nephews as well as extended family and friends that he loved dearly and who all loved to roll their eyes while laughing at his corny jokes and loved him immensely for it. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend who would help anyone who needed it without hesitation. Those that were lucky enough to know him will definitely share the void felt by the family. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend a Memorial Mass in the Chapel of MOTHE FUNERAL HOME, 7040 Lapalco Blvd., Marrero, LA on Friday, May 9, 2025 at 11:00am. Visitation will be held from 9:00am - 11:00am. Interment Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery, 1225 Whitney Ave., Gretna, LA.  The family invites you to share your thoughts, fond memories and condolences online at www.mothefunerals.com.