Alan Michael O’Brien – 44, of North Reading, formerly of Chittenden, VT and post-college in Somerville, MA, for 15 years passed away unexpectedly at his home on October 7, 2025. He was born in Weymouth, MA on February 8, 1981.
He graduated from Rutland High School in Vermont in 1999, where he played football for four years. He previously attended Barstow Memorial School, where he was a well-loved student. He studied Psychology at Elmira College in New York, graduating in 2003. Alan was a Supervisory Surveillance Specialist at the FBI, he worked for the Boston Bureau for 20 years. He also served as an Instructor at the Training Center in Quantico, VA. Alan has been a resident of North Reading for the past 8 years.
Alan was extremely kind and generous with his time and had a knack for gift-giving. He was an excellent listener and always knew what to say. He also knew when to say nothing at all. Truly a devoted son, brother, uncle, co-worker and friend. Alan’s work at the FBI was his true passion, He was extremely dedicated to his team.
Alan was a collector of unique art, people and stories. A true music lover, he was a huge Prince fan and a dedicated Swiftie. Alan was very well read between books and comics. He was a die-hard Patriots fan, and he truly loved the game of football. Alan was passionate about his passions and trust us he had many.
In his free time, Alan loved relaxing with his favorite podcasts, including Last Podcast on the Left, The Flophouse, and The Regular Features Podcast. He enjoyed his time on the FBI Softball Team, where camaraderie often mattered more than the score.
Family members include his loving parents, Walter M. and Linda M. (Christensen) O’Brien of Rutland, VT; his brother, Andrew J. O’Brien and his wife Holly of Wakefield, RI; his niece, Sloane (age 14) and nephew, Parker (age 8).
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 24th from 4 to 6:50 PM, followed by a brief service, at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading.
To honor Alan’s memory, we will be establishing a special fund for the Rutland High School football team. We are grateful to Coach Mike Norman for his support and dedication. Those wishing to contribute may do so in Alan’s name.
Linda, Walter, and Andrew,
We are heartbroken for your loss of
Alan. He’ll be remembered for being such a loving Uncle to Holly and Andrew’s kids, Sloane and Parker. We shared many crime novels, especially Lee Child’s Jack Reacher series. He will be missed! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Much love,
Milton and Martha Huston
Alan was such a wonderful person, brilliant at his job, and a true inspiration. He will be truly missed
Linda, Walt, Andrew & Family Members,
We your Thrive family & beyond send our deepest condolences for the loss of Alan to heaven’s gain.
‘Tis been said that when God is pleased, we are called home; and further our Native American friends remind us that there never truly is an end, rather, a change of worlds.
I’m imagining that all of this can sound very trite at this moment, but in due time, I hope it provides balm for your souls.
I will never forget when he helped us with our computer in some dire circumstances. His lightning speed and acumen was undeniable.
We also loved our conversations with him given his brilliance, wit, and often required enigma trajectories. And when other family members of yours joined in the conversation it was often even more fun, entertaining & fascinating.
A deep well that’s for sure…In this life…There is often more unseen / unknown than seen & known. The great mystery continues. We thank him for his unwavering service… And all of your support in him doing so… ❤️
We will be with you in spirit on 10/24 & 11/1.
For now I leave you with Bubbles Up, Jimmy Buffet: https://share.google/z07RnmRHinxIccdJ1
Love,
LMKC-D
What a wonderful soul and family man.
What an unimaginable loss for everyone.
My heart is with all of you. Love, Monica
Linda, Walt, Andrew & Family Members,
We your Thrive family & beyond send our deepest condolences for the loss of Alan to heaven’s gain.
‘Tis been said that when God is pleased, we are called home; and further our Native American friends remind us that there never truly is an end, rather, a change of worlds.
I’m imagining that all of this can sound very trite at this moment, but in due time, I hope it provides balm for your souls.
I will never forget when he helped us with our computer in some dire circumstances. His lightning speed and acumen was undeniable.
We also loved our conversations with him given his brilliance, wit, and often required enigma trajectories. And when other family members of yours joined in the conversation it was often even more fun, entertaining & fascinating.
A deep well that’s for sure…In this life…There is often more unseen / unknown than seen & known. The great mystery continues. We thank him for his unwavering service… And all of your support in him doing so…
We will be with you in spirit on 10/24 & 11/1.
For now I leave you with “Bubbles Up” song by Jimmy Buffet… Do look it up. It makes me cry every time I listen to it.
This is my second sending. I certainly hope that it posts this go.
Love,
LMKC-D