Conan O'Brien's parents die just days apart after 66 years of marriage

In December 2024, Thomas O'Brien and Ruth Reardon O'Brien passed away peacefully at their home in Brookline, Massachusetts. Dr. Thomas O'Brien, 95, who had a distinguished career in medicine, died on December 9. His wife, Ruth O'Brien, 92, who was a groundbreaking attorney, followed just three days later on December 12. They had been married for 66 years and were survived by six children and several grandchildren and nieces and nephews. A funeral mass was scheduled for December 18 in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, to honor their lives and contributions to family and community. Thomas O'Brien was not only recognized for his role as the first director of the infectious diseases division at Brigham and Women’s Hospital but was also a pioneer in tackling antimicrobial resistance through his work with the World Health Organization. His passion for medicine transformed the way data was utilized to handle outbreaks of drug-resistant strains of microbes. In a reflection of his character, Conan O'Brien lauded his father for his infectious humor, recounting cherished memories that highlighted Thomas' character as well as his longstanding appreciation for comedy, which he instilled in his son. Ruth O'Brien, a remarkable figure in her own right, broke barriers as one of only four women at Yale Law School in her class of 1956 and later became the second woman partner at the prestigious law firm Ropes & Gray. Her life was characterized by achievements that paved the way for future generations of female attorneys, inspiring many with her determination and success against the odds. Conan recounted the pride his mother felt upon achieving her partnership, a significant milestone not just for her but for their entire family. As the couple departs this world, their legacy endures through their children and grandchildren. The O'Brien family has been profoundly impacted by the loss, as they come to terms with the absence of their parents, who were pivotal figures in their lives. Together, Thomas and Ruth O’Brien’s lives encapsulated a story of love, resilience, and achievement, highlighting the vital roles they played both within their family and in their professional lives. The community at large felt their loss, as the couple had a deep connection to their home in Brookline and contributed to its vibrancy, leaving behind a fond memory in the hearts of many.