Gilbert "Gibby" O'Brien

Calais – Gilbert R. “Gibby” O’Brien, 84, passed away Wednesday, August 12, 2020 at Eastport Memorial Nursing Home. Gibby was born at the family home in Calais on January 19, 1936, son of Clarence “Cuddy” and Christine (Olson) O’Brien.

Gibby worked as a golf caddy while attending school in Calais and went on to deliver milk for Border City Dairy. While delivering milk to the school, he met his true love and future wife, Louise Booth. They were united in marriage on July 14, 1956. In 1955, Gibby and his father Cuddy started a construction business which they owned and operated until Cuddy’s passing in 1989. He drove truck for Beckett & Co. delivering products to grocery stores throughout Washington County until the 1970’s when he started driving for Cole’s Express. In the 1980’s, Gibby drove for VL Tammaro and finished his driving career in 2009 from JD Thomas with millions of miles driven. He also served in the Army National Guard in Calais for 15 years.

After his retirement, Gibby enjoyed helping his son Bobby restore antique cars. He was a member of St. Croix Bowling Club and the Sherman Bros. American Legion Post #3 in Calais and enjoyed golfing, watching the Red Sox, Celtics and NASCAR, going to car shows, and taking pride in his lawn. To Gibby, his family was his first passion. He loved spending time with his beloved wife Louise, going for their daily drive in “Big Red” and having their morning coffee and muffin. He was his son Bobby’s biggest fan, taking pride in being a member of his racing team. Through all of Bobby’s races, Gibby only missed one.

In addition to his parents Cuddy and Christine, Gibby was predeceased by a brother, Byron “Bunny” O’Brien. Surviving are his loving wife of 68 years, Louise O’Brien; his son and best friend, Bobby O’Brien and fiancé Stephanie Wormell of Calais; his brother Wilfred O’Brien and wife Maryann of Calais; sister-in-law Betty O’Brien of Calais; brothers-in-law Raymond Gray of Saco, and Louis Booth and wife Regina of Biddeford; many nieces and nephews, numerous special friends; and his extended family, the O’Brien Racing Team.

At the family’s request, those attending the services are asked to wear a mask and follow CDC guidelines. Visiting hours will be held 6-8 p.m. Friday, August 14, 2020 at Mays Funeral Home, 26 Church St., Calais. A graveside service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, August 15 at Calais Cemetery with Rev. Sara Gavit officiating.