Paula O’Brien, 90, of Taylors passed peacefully in her home on April 19, 2026. She was encircled by loved ones - and her Union Jack blanket.

Born June 22, 1935, in King’s Lynn, England, Pauline Iris Minister was the daughter of Annie Louisa (Gamble) Minister and Ernest Minister, and was five years junior to her sister, Yvonne. Raised in a small fishing village, Paula loved coastal living and seafood. She couldn’t fathom how anyone could not like seafood, saying it was their primary source of protein during the war.

Paula attended Gaywood Park High School for girls in King’s Lynn, where she was involved in various activities and served as a prefect. She enjoyed working at Boots pharmacy beauty counter, and even took some beautician courses. Although she did not pursue this career, she would often do her friends’ hair, and she never left the house without being properly styled. Red lipstick was her signature.

In the early 1960s, Paula met the love of her life, James Edward O’Brien, an American from Georgia. Jim was stationed at Bushy Park Air Force base in Middlesex, and shortly after uniting, they moved to the United States. They lived in various places before settling in Greenville, South Carolina - their home for over 60 years, and where they raised their three children.

Paula had a zest for life. Each day began with a plan, and each day was full. Her warm, engaging personality gained her many lifelong friends and popularity. It was common for someone to stop by the house for a cup of tea, glass of wine, or a chat. If friends were not at the house, Paula probably wasn’t home. She loved babies, animals, music, People magazine, traveling, and warm sunshine. An afternoon on the beach or by the pool was her oasis.

In her prime, she participated in many clubs and activities – darts, bunco, mall walking, water aerobics, Red Hat Society, Parrot Head club, and a little golf. She was a charter member of Greenville’s Red Coat chapter of Daughters of the British Empire (DBE), where she passionately served for 50 years. Paula cherished her British heritage, and her local British community. She made it her responsibility to take care of the elders in the club, even when she herself became elderly. She was also an active member of the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, until the church ultimately came to her when she became homebound.

Paula will be remembered for her fun demeanor, active lifestyle, beautiful smile, and, most importantly, her generous, caring heart. She loved her family, friends, and life itself. She is survived by her husband, Jimmy, who loved her immensely for 65 years; her children – Jon O’Brien, Dee Stephens (Mike), Shannon Virtue (David), Terry Conyers (Brian), Michelle Bailey (Bob), and Cherie Kimbrell; and many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her legacy will live through all who loved her.

The family would like to thank all who helped care for Paula in her final years - caregivers who became family, friends who continued to call, pastors who shared the good word, and Wren Hospice for their medical care.

A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, 200 Cannon Street in Greer, South Carolina. The service will be officiated by Reverend Leslie Ferguson Horvath. A reception, hosted by the DBE, will be held immediately after the service in the Parish Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Sarah Simpson Gossett Home, 27 Conestee Avenue, Greenville, SC 29605, or the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, 200 Cannon Street, Greer, South Carolina 29651.