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Mary Elise “Lisa” O’Brien, 57, of Salisbury, NC, passed away May 3, 2014. She was born June 3, 1956 in Salisbury to the late Richard “RJ” O’Brien and Emily Phelps Corley O’Brien. A 1974 graduate of North Rowan High School in Spencer, she also earned a B.A. in Business Administration from Catawba College in Salisbury.
Lisa was an Exceptional Children teacher for middle and high school students at Cabarrus County Opportunity School in Concord.
Lisa had a passion for photography and all things pink. She loved going to the beach with her friends, visiting cousins, and attending concerts for her beloved Oak Ridge Boys. Most recently she had been writing, especially stories and books for children. She was very close to publishing her first book.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by a brother, Bruce Corley.
She is survived by her brother, Richard and wife Vickie Corley, her sister-in-law, Sandy Corley, her brother, George “Joe” and wife Adele O’Brien, and many loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. She will be missed by her family, friends, coworkers, and students.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 1p.m. on Saturday, May 10, at the First Baptist Church on 302 Patterson St in China Grove (1 block off Main). If you can, please wear something pink.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests you make a donation to the charity of your choice.
Carolina Cremation of Salisbury, NC is assisting the O’Brien family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com.
Deborah says
To the O’Brien family, my name is Deborah and I’m a member of the Christian Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. I am so sorry for the loss of your dear loved one. As time goes by or even today you may yearn to see your sister again. The words of Jesus found in John 5:28,29 of the King James Bible says,”Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in which all those in the graves will hear his voice, and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life…” These words gives you, the family, a real hope, a promise of being reunited with your beloved sister. May the words of Jesus strengthen you as the years, months, days and hours passes by without the presence of the one you love. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this time of great sorrow.
Norma Goldman says
I was so very sad to hear about your loss. I worked with Lisa in the EC classes in the Rowan- Salisbury schools and also got to know her personally through mutual friends. She was such a warm, caring, honest, smart and unique lady. What a tragic void her death will leave in the hearts of all who knew her.
Norma Goldman
Melanie Covell says
I worked with Lisa at the Opportunity School for 3 years. She had such a great sense of humor and worked so well with our students. She will definitely be missed!
Lorraine Reidda says
Lisa and I worked together in an Exceptional Children’s class at Knox Middle School.
Lisa enjoyed all students and was exceptionally patient and nurturing to our class. Such a free spirit!!!! Sadly and greatly missed.
Karen Troxell Browning says
I was a classmate of Lisas at North Rowan. I am sorry to hear of her passing. I remember how friendly and always smiling she was! We had some fun times especially in our band days! Thoughts are prayers are with the family.
Z.Nieves says
I am sorry for your loss. There is a scriptures that bring me comforted when I loss my Dad: “God will swallow up death forever and He will wipe the tears from all faces” (Isaiah 25:8). In this time of loss, may God, Families, Friend and the precious memories of Mary, help you through