Gerald T. O’Brien
…D.J. - “Jerry O” at age 61
TEWKSBURY - Gerald T. O’Brien, known by all as "Jerry O,” father and grandfather, passed away July 18, 2016, surrounded by his loving family at the Merrimack Valley Hospice in Haverhill. He was the beloved fiancée of Jean (Santarlasci) Collins of Tewksbury for 16 years. Jerry was born in Somerville, MA in July, 1955, the son of the late Rudolph and Mary “Gerry” (Kerr) Mercuri formerly of Billerica, MA. Jerry was employed at Boutiette’s Auto Body of Tewksbury for over 5 years. He was also a DJ for twenty plus years, playing at clubs, private functions, weddings and charity events. Before becoming a DJ, Jerry ran the lights and sound-board for some of the best local bands in New England, including the rock band “Love Lace” and show band “Larry and the Exciters”. He ran lights and sound-board for famous country artists, such as Billy Rae Cyrus and Reba McEntire. Jerry was an avid New England sports fan. He loved fishing, and he loved playing on his dart league for over 30 years. Jerry won many championships and trophies playing darts! He loved playing Keno, cards, and going to the casino. Jerry was a 3rd degree member of the Knights of Columbus, Fr. Coppen’s Council 4336 in Tewksbury. Besides his fiancée Jean Collins; Jerry is survived by daughter Tiffany Ashmore and her husband Shawn of West Virginia; son Geoffrey O’Brien and fiancé Victoria Grall of West Virginia; two grandchildren Xzavior and Zander of West Virginia; sisters Charlene O’Brien of Billerica, MA, Michelle Mercuri of Methuen, MA, Lucille Beland of Methuen, MA, Joan Santarlasci of Lawrence, MA, Joanna Matterazzo of Pelham,NH; brother William “Billy” Santarlasci of Billerica, MA; two loving dogs Timber and Razor, and his late dog “Jessie.” He is also survived by five nieces and nephews, and many family and friends. The family would like to thank the Knights of Columbus in Tewksbury for all of their love and support for “Jerry O.” Jerry will be missed by all, including his best friend Brian Robinson of Tewksbury. He has touched the lives of so many people through his music. Jerry was a respectful man, loved by many, and will live on forever in all of our hearts.
Visiting hours Thursday, July 21, from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. in the Tewksbury Funeral Home, corner of 1 Dewey and 975 Main Sts. (Rte. 38) TEWKSBURY CENTER, Ph. (800 in MA or 978) 851 2950. His funeral will begin Friday at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. in St. William’s Church, 1351 Main St. (Rte. 38) Tewksbury. Burial will follow in Fox Hill Cemetery, Billerica. Memorials to the “Special Needs Prom Night” Knights of Columbus, Attn: Hugh Brown, 2068 Main St. Tewksbury, MA 01876, are encouraged. visit: tewksburyfuneralhome.com