Michael L. O'Brien

Michael L. O’Brien, 77, of Maryville, IL, passed away, Saturday, June 20, 2026, at BJC Hospital in St. Louis, MO.

He was born on August 12, 1948, in East St. Louis, to Michael and Lois (nee Ervi) O’Brien. On June 20, 1970, he married the love of his life, Sandra Goolsby, at Kingshighway Church of Christ in East St. Louis, IL.

Michael proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War before beginning a long and dedicated career with Ameren Illinois, where he worked as a supervisor until his retirement. Outside of work, he had a lifelong passion for locomotives, whether watching trains, building intricate model railroads, or adding to his treasured collection of model trains. He was also a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan who rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite team. Known for his quick wit and playful sense of humor, Michael loved making others laugh with a well-timed joke or harmless prank. Above all, he was a devoted family man who cherished every moment spent with those he loved. He will be deeply missed as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend whose laughter and love will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Lois O’Brien.

Michael is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Sandra O’Brien; children, Kimberly (Marcus) Fox, Joseph (Dana) O’Brien; grandchildren, Michael Fox, Dalton (Annie) Fox, Samantha Fox, Dylan O’Brien, Hayley O’Brien; great-grandchild, Blaire Elizabeth Fox; siblings, Sharon Lancaster, John (Connie) O’Brien, Mark (Cindy) O’Brien, Debbie (David) Rudolph, Patrick (Constance) O’Brien; nieces, nephews, and many loving friends.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

On behalf of Michael and his family, we request you wear casual attire, your Cardinals shirts, or favorite pair of casual blue jeans, just like Michael would have wanted.

Visitation: Thursday, June 25, 2026, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM, and Friday, June 26, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, at Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, in Collinsville, IL.

Funeral Service: Friday, June 26, 2026, 11:00 AM, Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, Collinsville, IL.

Clergy: Pastor Myles Holmes

Interment: Valhalla Gardens Cemetery, Belleville, IL.

Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, Collinsville, IL.