Taylor Lyons O'Brien

Taylor Lyons O’Brien, of Lawrenceville, GA, passed away on June 6, 2025, at the age of 30. Born on April 10, 1995, in Atlanta, GA, Taylor lived a life full of creativity, compassion, laughter, and love.

A proud graduate of Collins Hill High School’s Class of 2013, Taylor went on to earn dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Cinema Studies and Writing from Georgia Gwinnett College in 2020. He later completed his Master of Fine Arts at the University of Georgia in 2022. Taylor’s love of storytelling became his life’s work, and he served as the Creative Narrative Lead with Writers Workshops. He also shared his gifts in the classroom as an adjunct English professor at Kennesaw State University (2023–2024) and later as an adjunct film professor at Georgia Gwinnett College (2024–2025).

Taylor’s favorite hobby was writing, but his greatest joy came from loving and serving those around him. Whether it was brewing coffee before sunrise at church, rolling up mats at wrestling, grilling cheese sandwiches at the concession stand, helping his dad re-learn how to walk, or even lending a steady arm to help his father stand during worship, Taylor never walked away from work that needed to be done. He gave the BEST bear hugs, delivered constant comic relief with puns and silly faces, and poured out love with joyful energy.

He was known for his kindness, sense of humor, deep thoughtfulness, and unwavering support for his family and friends. Taylor made everyone feel seen and cherished. His life was a radiant example of humility, service, and joyful presence.

Taylor is preceded in death by his father, Michael David O’Brien; his grandmothers, Mary Emily O’Brien and Caroline Casswell. He is survived by his loving mother, Jodi O’Brien; his beloved twin brother, Connor O’Brien; his grandfather, James Oakley; and his aunt and uncle, Holli and Stephen Mast.

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Wages and Sons Gwinnett Chapel, 1031 Lawrenceville Hwy, Lawrenceville, GA 30046. A Celebration of Life will follow on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM at 12Stone Church, 1322 Buford Dr, Lawrenceville, GA 30043.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to 12Stone Church or to Lost-N-Found Youth Thrift Store, causes that reflect Taylor’s heart for faith and helping others.

Taylor Lyons O’Brien lived with a full heart and an open hand. His light, laughter, and love will continue to shine through all those blessed to know him.