Barbarajean O’Brien, age 67, passed away on Easter afternoon, Sunday, March 27, at her home in Warren, with her large family around her.
Bobby, as her family called her, was born in Englewood, New Jersey, to Marie O’Brien and Donald O’Brien on October 14, 1948. As a child she loved reading about science and the natural world and as she grew, she developed into a talented artist and painter, especially loving to paint animals and the natural world, until Friedreich’s ataxia eventually robbed her of her mobility, sight and hearing, weakening her heart and eventually leading to her death.
At the age 29, Bobby met her caregiver and lifelong companion, Jonathan Draudt, and together they bought a house in the hills over Warren, where they lived ever since. Together, they enjoyed listening to music, taking long walks on the dirt roads and sharing the company of many pets and friends over the years.
Bobby loved to read about comparative religions and the occult, was a fan of horror stories (especially classics by H.P. Lovecraft) and had a wonderful sense of humor. She tended to look on the bright side of life, telling her sister, "I prefer to think about the things I can do and not the things I can't do."
She was a pillar of strength in the face of her multiple disabilities, always ready with her quick wit and smile and inspired everyone who met her. She leaves a void in the lives of those who loved her and is sorely missed.
Bobby is survived by her mother, Marie, and stepfather, Ted Tedford; by brothers, Tom and Charlie, sisters Pat, Paula and Laurie, sister-in-law Linda, and brother-in-law, Rob, who were present with their children at her passing on Easter, and by additional beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins from across the country.
Barbarajean did not know what was waiting for her on the other side of life, but she said she liked to think there was a chance for her to be, finally, just like everybody else.
There will be a memorial gathering at her house (141 Tamarack Street, Alpine Village, Warren, 496-3363) starting at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 2, all are welcome.
