Alice Harrell O'Brien

Alice Harrell O'Brien lived a full life, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered by her family and friends. Born in Houston, Texas to Agnes and Wes Harrell, Alice's attended Lamar High School followed by Vanderbilt University where she graduated with degrees in English Literature and Art History. While studying at Vanderbilt University, Alice met Bill O’Brien, who would later become her husband. After graduation, the couple returned to Amarillo, where they began their life together and shared 62 remarkable years of marriage.

Alice and Bill were blessed with three children who were the center of Alice's world. She poured her heart into nurturing, supporting, and encouraging them at every turn. Whether it was cheering them on at tennis tournaments, fostering their curiosity through learning beyond the classroom, or showering them with boundless love, Alice instilled in her children the belief that they could achieve anything to which they set their minds. Her passion for life and her pursuit of excellence set an example that continues to guide them.

Alice's commitment to empowering communities, particularly through education and service, was a motif in her life. Beginning her career as a teacher at WT University, she went on to serve for 12 years on the Amarillo Independent School District Board, where she became its first female President. This dedication expanded to positions on St. Andrew’s Episcopal Day School and Boy’s Ranch School boards, as well as innovative initiatives such as ACE, that became a national model for schools across the country.

Passionate about art and design, Alice supported museums, collected art, and promoted cultural education. At just 26 years old, Alice became a founding Trustee of the Amarillo Art Museum, reflecting her love of art and her commitment to enriching her community's cultural landscape.

She served as President of the Amarillo Area Foundation and contributed her time and energy to the boards of organizations such as the Bivins Foundation, Discovery Center, and the Red Cross.

In 2007, Alice was named Amarillo’s Woman of the Year. During her acceptance speech, she humbly remarked, “As a recipient of this honor, I serve as a proxy, representing the importance and value of education within our community. A strong educational system is the cornerstone of our collective future.”

Alice cherished family time whether on the beaches of La Jolla, celebrating Easter at the ranch, or making gingerbread cookies with the grandkids over Christmas. She loved traveling, especially to France, and was a voracious reader. She always found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Alice's legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched through selflessness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to making the world a better place. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Alice is survived by her husband, Bill O'Brien, her brother, Lee Harrell, and her kids and spouses: Blake & Shannan O'Brien, Alex & Meg O'Brien, and Katherine & Chris Wallin. She had 7 grandkids that she loved dearly: Raine (23) & Kieran (21) O'Brien, Laurel (16) & Liam (14) O'Brien, and Davis (21), Ryan (19), & Elle (16) Wallin.

Service Information

All friends and family are invited to attend a service followed by a reception that will be held June 14th at 11am at the LIT Ranch, US HWY 385 after the entrance to Boy's Ranch. (**Map to LIT Ranch is in Gallery**).  Please share your love for Alice by dressing comfortably and wearing what you wish! Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors, 2800 Paramount Blvd.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to any of Alice’s favorites:

• Opportunity School

• Evelyn Rivers

• St. Andrew’s Day School

or, a local charity of your choosing.