John Eldwin O’Brian, 60

John Eldwin O’Brian, 60, passed away unexpectedly on November 9, 2026.  He was born on August 23, 1966, in Omaha, Nebraska, to George and Betty O’Brian.

John graduated from Baldwin High School with a scholarship to play college baseball and earned an Associate of Arts degree from Florida State College at Jacksonville in 1988.  He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in mathematics education from the University of North Florida in 1992 and a Master of Education in administration and supervision from Florida A&M University in 1998.

John spent 28 years with Clay County District Schools and served his community in many roles, including math teacher, assistant principal at Green Cove Junior High School, vice principal and principal at Middleburg High School and finally as principal of Paterson Elementary School in Fleming Island, Florida.  He also taught mathematics as an adjunct instructor at Florida State College at Jacksonville.  His care for Paterson showed up in everyday ways.  He mowed the school grounds himself because he enjoyed it, and whenever a Paterson student recognized him at the salon, he made a point of saying hello.

He was known to be kind, fair, hardworking, intelligent and humble.  He cared deeply for his students and his school community.  John made a tremendous impact on many students over his almost 30-year career.

John is survived by his daughter, Bailey Agner, and her husband, Dylan Agner. He is also survived by his brother, Dink O’Brian, and Dink’s wife, Denise; his sister, Lynn Edwards, and many nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents, George and Betty O’Brian; his sister, Melecia Swedbergh; and his brother-in-law, Jim Edwards.

A memorial service will be held Friday, November 13, 2026 at 4:00pm at Hibernia Baptist Church, 7100 US-17, Fleming Island, FL 32003.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made in John’s memory to Paterson Elementary School, 5400 Pine Avenue, Fleming Island, FL 32003.  Please include “In memory of John O’Brian”.

Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest Funeral Home. Family and friends may share their condolences at https://www.RHRFH.com.