Robert “Robin” Emmett O’Brien
On Friday, January 22, 2021, Robert “Robin” Emmett O’Brien passed away peacefully at the age of 81.
Robin was born to Robert and Dorothy O’Brien on July 17, 1939 in Chattanooga, TN . After graduating from Central High School in 1957 and receiving his degree from Tennessee Tech in ’61, he began his career as an educator and coach at Tyner Middle and High Schools. In 1964 he married Caroline Clevenger and had two children.
Robin was a teacher of many subjects but will always be remembered as “Coach OB”. There were countless summers at Turner Club where he taught hundreds of kids to swim and play tennis. He always had an enviable tan. If Robin wasn’t at the pool or tennis court, he could be found coaching his son’s youth baseball teams. Some of his proudest moments during his career were when he helped coach the 1997 Tyner Rams football team to a TSSAA 2A State Championship. After retiring in 1998, he enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his grandchildren, teaching them how to throw a ball, swing a racket, or play cards.
Robin was preceded in death by his parents and his wife of 45 years, Caroline.
He is survived by his devoted and loving children; daughter Kelly (Marcus) Higgins, and son Michael (Jennifer) O’Brien, as well as his adored grandchildren Kailin and Garrett Higgins and Madeline and Laurel O’Brien, all of whom he was endlessly proud.
OB was a man of few words but when he spoke it was always to the benefit of the listener. He made an impact on more lives than he ever knew and those who knew him will never forget him and the lessons he taught us.
Due to the current pandemic there will be no visitation and the family will have a private graveside service.
Arrangements are by the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 7414 Old Lee Highway.
Please share your memories at: ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com