Dolly Dean (Smithwick) O'Brien

Dolly Dean Smithwick O'Brien, 86, of Davidson, NC passed away peacefully on September 7, 2026.

Born on January 28, 1940, in Mitchell County, Georgia, Dolly spent the majority of her professional career as a corporate secretary. However, her final role at Woodward Middle School in Wilkesboro, NC brought her the greatest joy.

Dolly was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and sister. To know her was to know her warmth, kindness, and joyful spirit. When you think of Dolly, you cannot help but smile, knowing she is undoubtedly smiling right back at you. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

In her leisure time, Dolly enjoyed spending time with family and friends, reading, tennis, dancing, travel, and, of course, shopping.

She is survived by her three children: Dan (Jennifer) O'Brien of Homossassa, FL; Kelly (Steve) Gentry of Davidson, NC; and John (Julie) O'Brien of Greensboro, NC; six grandchildren: Jewell, Sarah, Daniel, Gambill, Brandon, and Dixon; and her brothers Luke Smithwick and John Edward Crosby.

Dolly was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert (Bob) O'Brien; infant daughter, Linda O'Brien; her parents, James Smithwick and Jewell Smithwick Crosby; and her two brothers, Clifford and Hoyt Smithwick.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am on September 19, 2026 at St. Therese Catholic Church in Mooresville, NC. Burial will follow the service at Mimosa Cemetery in Davidson, NC. For those who cannot attend in person, the service will be livestreamed (https://www.sainttherese.net/mass-livestream).

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the entire staff at The Pines in Davidson for their compassionate care they provided.  Our sincere thanks to Via Health Partners for their compassionate palliative and hospice care during our brief time together.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her memory to the Alzheimer's Association.

Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home is caring for the family.  Memories and condolences may be shared at www.KepnerFH.com