Ruth O'Brien

O’Brien, Ruth, Trenton, Michigan. Our loving wife, mother and Nana, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, January 7, 2021 at the age of 97. Ruth was born on September 26, 1923 in Ashland, Kentucky, daughter of the late William and Dulcie (Roark) Reynolds. Ruth was the eldest child of seven, and helped raise her younger siblings after her father passed away when she was 15 years old. She was a graduate of Ashland High School, Class of 1942. She married John Calvin O’Brien (late) on August 14, 1943 in Ashland, Kentucky, and they relocated to Michigan in 1952 to pursue work opportunities and a build life for their family. Ruth was known throughout the downriver community as a successful business owner of “A Touch of Glass” Flowers, and for her contributions to the Downriver business community through her involvement with Soroptimist International of Trenton (Lifetime Membership Award), Southern Wayne County Chamber of Commerce, and Michigan Floral Association (Retailer of the Year Award). She also was afforded the opportunity to attend several Presidential Inaugurations which began with Jimmy Carter through George W. Bush. She sold the flower shop and retired at the age of 75, and she spent her retirement years in Naples, Florida before returning to Trenton in 2012. She enjoyed flowers & gardening, cooking, playing cards, and spending time with family and friends. Ruth is survived by her family, Jonda Schwab, of Trenton, Sally O’Brien, of Trenton, Kathy (Charles) Dean, of Detroit, Mary (Norman) Shinkle, of Williamston, James Lambert Sr., of Trenton. 11 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Ginny Reynolds, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased in death by her husband, John O’Brien; her daughters, Tina O’Brien and Judith Lambert; her parents, William and Dulcie Reynolds; by her five brothers and one sister; by her sons-in-law, William Stasek and Roger Schwab. The family observed a private service, which was officiated by her grandson, James Lambert Jr. Ruth’s final resting place is at Michigan Memorial Park Cemetery in Huron Township, Michigan. The family would like any tribute gifts to be donated to Hospice of Michigan in Ruth’s honor.