Obituary of Barbara Roth O'Brien

On April 8, 2025, Barbara “Barb” M. Roth O’Brien passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, humor, and cherished memories. Born to Eugene and Marion Roth, Barb grew up Rochester, NY along with her older brother John Roth, and her younger siblings Cathie Roth Whitney and Mike Roth.

Barb graduated from Mercy High School in 1963 and went on to earn her Nursing degree from St. Joseph’s in Syracuse in 1966, and her Nurse Practitioner degree from U-of-R in 1967. Helping children was her passion throughout her life, even after she stopped practicing medicine. She was always available for advice for new parents and wanted to see every child thrive. 

In 1968, Barb married the love of her life, Frank O’Brien, whom she met through her brother, John (Roth), one of Frank’s closest college buddies. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising four children: Erin (Greg Cicatelli), Meghan (Chris Lacher), Timothy (Kate Sutherland), and Molly (Rob Kolb).  

Barb had a fierce love for her family. She was proud of her children and all they achieved. She loved her grandchildren and made the best of her abilities to be with them. Madalynn & Connor Kolb and Rory & Riley O’Brien all brought immense joy to her life. In addition, Barb enjoyed wonderful relationships with her many nieces, nephews, and godchildren.  

Barb always wanted to make sure people felt welcome and included. She loved to throw a good party. Anyone who walked through the door was made to feel as if they were a part of the family, even being made to do chores with the rest of the kids. She had wonderful lifelong friends, who became “aunts” and “uncles” to her children. She enjoyed those friendships until the very end. She was competitive in spirit and loved a good Bridge or Euchre partner who could help her win. She had a clear line of what she believed was right and wrong, and you never had to wonder where she stood on topics she was passionate about.

Barb will be remembered for her wit, warmth, and unwavering commitment to family and friends. She will be profoundly missed, but her spirit and the memories she created will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

A celebration of Barb’s life will be held at a later date with information to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Barb’s memory to Lollypop Farm (https://www.lollypop.org)