Wanda Faith O’Brien was born Oct. 22, 1952, in Ray, Arizona. She was the daughter of Clara and Loyd “Snuffy” Palmer Sr. of Ray. She was a graduate from Ray High School in Kearny.
Wanda became a registered nurse and worked in several hospitals and departments across the state but she last worked as the Director of Nursing at the Arizona Training Program in Coolidge, AZ for the developmentally disabled. She was a compassionate and dedicated nurse and took joy in helping care for the residents and grew to love them. She unfortunately had to take an early retirement due to medical issues.
Wanda did not let becoming handicap slow her down. She adapted and still enjoyed her favorite hobbies. She was an avid gardener and when she was still physically able, she would spend hours fishing with her family. Wanda was also a talented jewelry maker and loved spending time shopping or enjoying a game or two at the casino. Wanda cherished every moment she had with her family.
After a brief illness, Wanda passed away on July 14, 2023, at the age of 70 in Mesa, AZ with her husband, children and grandchildren by her side.
She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Owen O’Brien Sr.; her children, Thomas O’Brien, David (Vickie) O’Brien, Amanda (Aaron) Cruz and, loved like a daughter, Jennifer (Raymond) Pittman. Her most loved part of her life were her grandchildren, Caitlyn Faith, Brianna, Britany and Mason. She also leaves behind brothers, Loyd Palmer Jr., Roy Palmer and Mike Palmer; her sisters, Peggy Elmer and Lorie Wilson; and adopted brother, Les Gotto. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Her precious loved poodle Choowee will miss her dearly.
She was preceded in death by her father, Loyd Sr., and her mother, Clara, and her sisters, Sylvia Deen and Lorinda Sue Parr.
She was greatly loved and will be deeply missed.
Private memorial services will be held at a later date.