Standish – James (Jip) Edward O’Brien, 76, passed away on January 1, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

James was born on January 13, 1948, in Portland, the son of Robert F. and Emilda (Eliason) O’Brien.

He was a 1966 graduate of Windham High School, where he served as Captain of the basketball team. Along with his teammates, he won the 1966 State Triple C Championship.

After high school, he attended Loyola College in Montreal, Canada, graduating summa cum laude in 1970. While at Loyola, he was a proud member of the Phi Kappa Beta Fraternity, which he was initiated into on January 19, 1969.

On May 10, 1969, James married his beloved wife and best friend, Sandra Goodwin, beginning a journey that would span an incredible 55 and a half years. Their love story began when they were just 12 years old, blossoming into a bond marked by unwavering commitment and deep devotion. Together, they shared a lifetime of joy, support, and cherished memories.

James spent many years in sales, working for U-Haul, Ryder, and C.A. Turner. He also worked as an overnight manager at Wal-Mart.

He was a loving and supportive person to everyone he met, always willing to help others in need. His devotion to his family was unwavering, and he cherished any opportunity to be with them. He also enjoyed snowmobiling and was an avid fan of crossword puzzles. He also was a life time fan of the New England Patriots and the Boston Red Sox.

James also cherished his dog Mollie who was his best friend and companion.

James was predeceased by his brother, David R. O’Brien Sr.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Sandra (Goodwin) O’Brien; one son, Scott O’Brien; and one daughter, Kelly O’Brien Cross and her husband, Michael Cross. He is also survived by his sister, Kathy O’Brien, and his sisters-in-law, Beckie (and her husband, John Lawrence), and Kim (and her husband, Andy Moyen), as well as one brother-in-law, Douglas Goodwin. Additionally, he leaves behind four grandchildren: Morgan, Mallorie, Zachary, and Marleigh.

James is also survived by his nephew, David R. O’Brien, who looked up to James as a father figure. They shared a close connection, and James was deeply committed to being there for David.

A celebration of Life will be held in the Spring/Early Summer

If friends or family wish to make a memorial contribution, it can be made in James’s name to the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, PO Box 336, Westbrook, ME 04098, or by visiting www.arlgp.org/memorial. Or to the Standish Rescue (175 Northeast Road Standish, ME 04084) for their extremely compassionate care they provided to James, his family is deeply grateful to them.