Joseph Neal O'Brien

Joseph Neal O’Brien, 82, of Lynchburg passed away July 7, 2016, at his home with his loving wife, Janice, and his family by his side.  Born April 5, 1934, in Lynchburg, Neal graduated from E. C. Glass High School and Lynchburg College. Neal served in the U.S. Army Reserve and had a distinguished career of 35 years with Central Fidelity Bank where he started as a trainee with National Bank just after graduating from college.  Neal served as a Vice President at the bank and served as a real estate loan officer. After his retirement in 1992, Neal volunteered at the Lynchburg Daily Bread and was recognized with a community service award.  Neal also volunteered for Meals on Wheels and was a member of the InterFaith Outreach Association.  A longtime member of Rivermont Avenue Baptist Church, Neal taught adult Sunday School for over 40 consecutive years, spending hours every week researching and preparing his lessons.  He also served as a Deacon and a member of the Finance Committee at the church.  Neal’s wisdom, kindness and Christian values will guide and support his family going forward.  Neal was preceded in death by his parents Otway Caldwell O’Brien and Lovalette Crute O’Brien.

Neal is survived by his wife of 58 years, Janice Waugh O’Brien, his daughter, Patricia O’Brien Campbell (husband Linwood), and son, Timothy (wife Laura).  He was a proud grandfather of four:  Matthew O’Brien Campbell (wife Brianna), Kathryn Ann Campbell, Caroline Celeste O’Brien and Kelsey Neal O’Brien.

The family extends a special thank you to the medical professionals and caregivers who supported Neal during his illness.  The family will receive visitors at Tharp Funeral Home at 220 Breezewood Drive in Lynchburg from 2 to 4 pm on Sunday, July 10. A Memorial Service will be held at Rivermont Avenue Baptist Church at 2 pm on Monday, July 11, 2016 with a reception to follow at the church immediately after the service.  A graveside service will be held after the church reception at Fort Hill Memorial Park at 4:30 pm.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lynchburg Daily Bread, 721 Clay Street, Lynchburg, VA 24504.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.

Click here to watch Neal’s Life Tribute Video