Darlene Paula (Shelley) O'Brien

Darlene S O’Brien Obituary

Darlene Paula Shelley O’Brien age 83 passed away mid- morning Monday, April 13, 2026 at Juniper Canyon Living Center in Redmond Oregon where she was a resident.  She fought a courageous battle with Frontotemporal Dementia.  She was reunited with her son, Sean and her Lord Jesus in Heaven.

Darlene was born August 11, 1942 in Salem Oregon to Darrell P Shelley and Virginia Cecelia Nelson.

She graduated Beaverton High School in 1960 and was a stellar student.  She belonged to many clubs such as The National Honor Society, Girls League Cabinet, and Youth For Christ.

Darlene moved to Denver, Colorado in 1965.  She met her husband of 60 years, Stephen W. O’Brien.  They were married 04/09/1966.  They had 5 children.

Darlene worked at various occupations that utilized her articulate skills and strong work ethic.  During the later part of her life she and her husband owned their own transportation company.

Darlene found joy in solving crossword puzzles, attending church, cooking and spending time with her family.  Her biggest accomplishment was being a wife, mother, and Grandma.  She loved deeply and sacrificed much.  Darlene will be deeply missed and her loving heart will live on in the lives of her family and all who knew her.

Darlene is survived by her husband, Stephen W O’Brien, La Pine, OR.  Her Children, Shelley Traverson (Jim) Kearney MO, Steve O’Brien Tucson AZ, Pat O’Brien (Kris ) Redmond OR, Mike O’Brien (Lori) Terrebonne OR. Brother Henry Tautfest (Marlene) Aurora OR.   Her beloved Grandchildren, Sarah, Steve, Lauren, RJ, Anna, Evelyn, Connor, and Jack.  Her precious Great-granddaughters, Daisy and Amberlee. And Friend and Guardian Cynthia Bese.

Darlene is preceded in death by her parents, Son Sean O’Brien, Sister Terri Van Damme, and Brother Russell Tautfest.

The Family would like to thank the caring staff at Juniper Canyon Living and Partners in Care Hospice who provided support and loving care to our Mom and her family.   

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