Lewisburg-William Edward “Billy” O’Brien passed away Wednesday, July 14, 2021, peacefully at his home in Lewisburg.
Born in Ronceverte, May 1, 1941, Billy was the son of the late Melvin O’Brien and Evelyn Ridgeway. His tireless work ethic began at an early age and upon graduation from Union High School in 1959 he went to work for his father’s construction company and later, at Hercules in Covington. Billy, along with his brothers Mike and Melvin “Chick” formed Three Brothers, Inc. and in 1984 he started Greenbrier Excavating & Paving, Inc. with his son, Alan.
Billy was an avid fan of AMC vehicles and built his AMC racecars and raced at dragstrips around the country. In later years, Billy enjoyed keeping up with Alan and grandson Kevin as they continued his legacy of racing AMC cars.
Billy was preceded in death by his brothers, Mike and Melvin “Chick” O’Brien; half-brothers, George and Marvin Ambler; and half-sister, Mildred Neuner.
Surviving Billy are his wife, Deborah Miller “Debbie” O’Brien; daughter, Shari O’Brien; sons, Alan (Tammy) and Kurt (Becky); grandsons, Kevin O’Brien (Jennie) and Seth McQuain; and a great grandson whom he affectionately called, “Little Man,” William James “Will” O’Brien. Also surviving are step-grandchildren, Zach Fugate and Kelli Jene Jeffries, as well as his Greenbrier Excavating Family, Wyatt Wilson, Ronnie Hill and Nicky O’Brien.
A graveside service was held at Greenbrier Memorial Gardens, Sunday, July 18 where Stewart Farley officiated.
The family would like to thank the staff at HospiceCare of Lewisburg for their kind and compassionate care. To honor their extraordinary service, the family asks in lieu of flowers, please make donations to HospiceCare Lewisburg, 1265 Maplewood Avenue, Lewisburg, WV 24901.
Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home in Lewisburg is in charge of arrangements. Please send online condolences by visiting www.WallaceandWallaceFH.com
