William J. O'Brien, Jr.

William J. O’Brien, Jr., 78, of Madison, passed away peacefully at his home on November 10, 2023.

William was born in Orange, N.J., and grew up in the Vailsburg section of Newark, N.J. He attended Sacred Heart Grammar School, Seton Hall Preparatory High School, and Seton Hall University. He held two Masters Degrees in Mathematics Education and Education Administration. He was a standout basketball player in both high school and college.

His career as a teacher of mathematics began in the Irvington public school system from 1969 through 1985. He then moved to the Madison public school system from 1985 through his retirement in 2007. During this time, he was also an adjunct Professor at Kean University. He was also the Head Coach of the Madison boys basketball team for many years during his tenure at Madison High School as well as a private tutor for many cherished students.

William was an avid fan of horse racing, watching any and all sporting events, and spending time at The Mirage in Las Vegas. But, above all, he enjoyed spending time down the shore with his family.

Beloved husband of 38 years, Linda Van Orden.  Devoted father of Rita Masterson, and her husband Robert Bantang Jr. and John Van Orden and his wife Megan. He is the cherished grandfather of Nicholas and Joseph Masterson, Emily, Lizzie and Jack Van Orden, and Michael and Dani Bantang.  Dear brother of Kathleen Brannagan, her husband Buddy, Patricia Jinks and Rosemary Young.  Also survived by many nieces, nephews, family members and friends.

William was pre-deceased by his parents Catherine (nee Caffrey) and William J. O’Brien, Sr., as well as two brothers-in-law, Fred Jinks, and Victor Young.

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Wednesday from 4-7pm.  Funeral on Thursday, assembling at the funeral home at 9am, followed by the funeral mass at St. Vincent Roman Catholic Church in Madison at 10am.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in William’s name to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.