James Anthony O'Brien, 61, of New Cumberland, WV, passed away unexpectedly Monday, April 14, 2025, in the WVU Wheeling Hospital.

Jim was born June 3, 1963, in Steubenville, OH, son of Clifford O'Brien and the late Janice (Bates) Blunt.

Jim worked for the WV Racing Commission as the Chief Racing Steward at Mountaineer Racetrack and Gaming Resort in Chester, WV. He had just recently retired at the beginning of April.

He was a 1981 graduate of Jefferson Union High School. Jim was an avid outdoorsman and was most happy when he was hunting or fishing with his sons.

In addition to his father, Clifford, of Stratton, OH, Jim is also survived by his wife and high school sweetheart, Julie (Wallace) O'Brien whom he married May 14, 1983; two sons, Zack of Fairmont, WV, and Jake of New Cumberland; brother, Greg (Cheri) O'Brien of Steubenville, OH; sister, Hope O'Brien of Toronto, OH, and several nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Friends will be received Friday, April 18 from 12 noon to 2:30 pm at the J.E. Foster Funeral Home where services will follow at 2:30 pm. Rev. Kevin Rinkes will officiate and burial will take place in the Toronto Union Cemetery. www.jefosterfh.com