Shivangi Sinha
In January 2022, news of John O’Keefe’s death deeply shook the community of Canton, Massachusetts. A respected officer with the Boston Police Department, John had been raising his niece and nephew following the deaths of his sister, Kristen M. O’Keefe Furbush, and brother-in-law, Stephen R. Furbush. His tragic passing prompted an outpouring of sympathy and support for the children he had been caring for. Both NBC’s ‘Dateline: Center of the Storm’ and ABC’s ‘20/20’ episode ‘Karen Read: The Verdict’ provide a comprehensive look at John’s life, his role as a guardian, and the events that led to the loss of another beloved member of his family.
Kristen and Stephen Furbush Led a Fulfilling Life in Canton With Their Two Kids
Kristen M. O’Keefe was born on February 8, 1974, to John J. and Margaret O’Keefe and raised in Braintree, Massachusetts, alongside her two brothers, John and Paul O’Keefe. Known for her cheery disposition and spirited nature, Kristen was someone who always carved her own path. She graduated from Braintree High School in 1992 and went on to earn her degree from Providence College in 1996. Her professional journey led her to State Street Corporation, where she rose to the position of Vice President of Global Markets. Kristen excelled in her role and was regarded as a dedicated and highly valued member of her team.
Stephen R. Furbush was born on March 25, 1974, in Framingham, Massachusetts, to Emily and Bob Furbush. He was raised alongside his siblings, Sarah and Mark, in a warm and supportive home and was known from a young age for being gentle and thoughtful. Friends and family often turned to him as a confidant, and he always had a smile for everyone. He graduated from Framingham High School in 1992 and went on to attend Babson College before later enrolling at Emerson College. A lifelong soccer enthusiast, he not only played at the collegiate level but also returned to coach the team at his former high school. Professionally, he built a career as a Mortgage Processor at Wellesley Bank. Kristen and Stephen shared a love that was deeply genuine and evident to all who knew them.
They were true partners in every sense, supporting each other through every chapter of life. When they married, friends and family were certain it was a bond that would last a lifetime. After settling down in Canton, Massachusetts, they welcomed their daughter Kayley around 2007, and a few years later, in 2010, their family felt complete with the birth of their son, Patrick. Together, the couple poured their hearts into raising their children and ensured they grew up surrounded by love, stability, and joy. With the constant affection and involvement of grandparents, uncles, aunts, and close friends, their home was filled with warmth and laughter. For many years, life seemed to offer them everything they had hoped for until something suddenly altered the course of their lives.
Kristen and Stephen Furbush Passed Away Within Months of Each Other
In 2013, Kristen Furbush was diagnosed with a brain tumor, and after a brave fight, she passed away on November 11 of that year. Her death came as a devastating blow to the O’Keefe family, as both of her parents were already gone. Her brothers, John and Paul, were left heartbroken by the loss of their beloved sister. The grief had barely begun to settle when another tragedy struck. Just two months later, on January 12, 2014, Stephen died suddenly of a heart attack. The heartbreak was immeasurable, and both families were left reeling. But in the midst of this unimaginable sorrow, the most painful reality was seeing young Kayley and Patrick lose both of their parents within such a short span.
It was then that John O’Keefe, Kristen’s brother, stepped in. Without a second thought, he took the children into his care. He vowed to raise them with the same warmth and love their parents would have given. For John, it wasn’t just a duty but an act of love. Through every school event, milestone, and quiet moment, he became their steady guide and protector. In honoring Kristen and Stephen’s memory, he gave Kayley and Patrick a second home that nurtured them.
Read More: Paul O’Keefe: Where is John O’Keefe’s Brother Now?
