Leola O’Brien

Mystic — Leola (Scroggins) O’Brien, 85, began her life in Noank on April 24, 1931.

Leola was the daughter of Groton’s first police chief, John Scroggins and Ellen (Robertson) Scroggins. Leola was a graduate of Fitch High School. She began her banking career at age 16 as a teller at Hartford National. She retired from Chelsea Groton Savings Bank as head of the loan department and assistant vice president.

She lost the love of her life, Roger L. O’Brien, after 32 years of marriage in 1993; she was also predeceased by her children, Meg, Mark and Lois.

She is survived by her son, the Rev. David O’Brien and his wife, Christine, of Richmond, Vt.; daughter, Pamela (O’Brien) Fain and her husband, Scott, of Ledyard; grandchildren, Jeremy, Daniel, Kimberly, Harrison and Emma; and her first great-grandchild; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Leola’s faith and positive attitude empowered her to live a full and happy life. She was active in her community, politics and church.

Leola’s family would like to thank the staff members at Academy Point for their love and kindness, making her final years filled with joy.

Leola’s family will receive friends from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30, at Mystic Funeral Home, Route 1, Mystic. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Mary Mother of the Redeemer Church, 69 Groton Long Point Road, Groton. Burial will follow at St. Patrick Cemetery, River Road, Old Mystic.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Leola O’Brien’s memory to Academy Point programming department, c/o Angela, 20 Academy Lane, Mystic, CT 06355.

The family invites you to visit www.mysticfuneralhome.com to leave an online message of condolence.