H. Joseph O'Bryan

H. Joseph O'Bryan entered into eternal life on February 22, 2025, with his wife at his side. He was born July 21, 1944, in Owensboro to the late Marion Albin O'Bryan Sr. and Elizabeth Oberst O'Bryan. Joe spent 8 years in the seminary, served 2 years in the US Army and 44 years with the Catholic Schools. He was a religion teacher, first lay principal of OCHS, and first lay superintendent for the Diocese of Owensboro. Joe was a lifetime member at Blessed Mother Parish where he served as a Eucharistic Minister and Lector. He was also a member of St. Columbkille in Fort Myers, Fl.

His love for Church, family, and the Catholic schools was evident by the life he led. He loved UK basketball, taking care of the yard and his flower garden. He always welcomed friends and neighbors and loved playing cards. His contagious smile and pleasant singing voice were always complemented. He had a great sense of humor as well as a witty comeback. As one dear friend said," Joe was human, humble and holy all at the same time." Joe was devoted to his wife Maggie and had a special loving relationship with his children and grandchildren, whom they called Pops. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Sr. Rose Marita O'Bryan and his brother Marion O'Bryan, Jr.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Margaret (Maggie) Simms O'Bryan, his three children; daughter, Jennifer O'Bryan and partner, David Hotka, their three boys, Preston, Parker, and Jake from Fort Myers, FL., his son Michael O'Bryan and wife, Kelly, their children Clayton and Kaylee, from O'Fallon, MO, and daughter, Jill O'Bryan Payne and husband, Randy, their children, Brycen and Camden, from Vero Beach, FL.

Also survived by his brother, David and wife, Trafta , from Louisville, KY and their children Dana Peters, husband Todd, and Nathan O'Bryan.

The funeral mass will be at 11:00 am Thursday March the 6th at St. Columbkille Catholic Church 12171 Iona Rd, Fort Myers, FL. Visitation will be at 10:00 am until the time of service. A luncheon will immediately follow at Holiday Condo. A Celebration of Life will be held in Owensboro, KY in late July.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Owensboro Catholic Schools, https://owensborocatholic.org/support-ocs/, Blessed Mother Catholic Church, https://www.wesharegiving.org/app/giving/WeShare-3024?tab=home , Or St. Columbkille Catholic Church address, 12171 Iona Rd. Fort Myers, FL 33908.