Mary "Sue" Sue Pearce O'Brien

Mary Sue "Sue" Pearce O'Brien, age 86, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2026.

Born on August 16, 1940, in Dallas, Texas, Sue was raised among her extended family in Rolesville, NC. A lifetime learner, Sue attended Mars Hill College, earned an AA from Clayton Junior College, and later graduated from Middle Tennessee State University, where she laid the foundation for a distinguished career dedicated to improving the lives of others. She lived a life defined by service, leadership, and devotion to her family and community.

Sue made her mark on the Murfreesboro community through her decades of service as Executive Director of the St. Clair Senior Citizens Center. Under her leadership, the center experienced a period of unprecedented growth, expanding its programs, services, and reach to better serve the area's senior population. During her tenure at the SCSC, Sue conceptualized and developed on-site programs such as the Nurse on Duty program, Adult Day Services, and the Caregiver Resource and Education Center, among several others. Her vision, determination, and compassion left a lasting impact on countless individuals and families throughout Rutherford County.

Sue was a patriot who loved her country. Not least of all, Sue had an unshakable faith in her Creator, in whose presence she now joyfully celebrates.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert E. O'Brien; her parents, Bruce and Elsie Pearce; brothers, Don Pearce and Larry Pearce; and a grandson, Evan Todd.

She is survived by a daughter, Susan O'Brien Todd (Stewart Todd) of Bentonville, Arkansas; her son, James R. O'Brien (Robin O'Brien) of Manchester, Tennessee; four grandchildren, Andrew and Samuel Todd, Maria O'Brien White and Lucas O'Brien; seven great-grandchildren, Miller, Murphy and Arthur Todd, Bowden, McKinsley and Elsie Mae White, Liam O'Brien; and her brother, Barry Pearce of Winston-Salem, NC.

Above all, Sue treasured her immediate and extended family. She prioritized family re-unions and get-togethers, family beach trips, and holidays surrounded by her loved ones. Sue took great pride and joy in her children and grands.

Sue will be remembered for her warmth, intelligence, generous spirit, and unwavering commitment to serving others. Her life's work enriched her community, and her love enriched her family. Her legacy will continue through the many lives she touched, and the family she cherished.

A celebration of Sue's life will be held at the Woodfin Funeral Home on Lascassas Pike in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, on Thursday November 5, 2026. Visitation will be from 12:00 until 2:00 PM with a funeral service to follow. Burial will take place at Evergreen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages those who wish to honor Sue's memory to send donations to the St. Clair Senior Citizens Center, and the Community Care of Rutherford County, both in Murfreesboro.

Her legacy of service, compassion, and leadership will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.