In a touching tribute, renowned comedian Conan O'Brien reflects on the extraordinary lives of his parents, Dr. Thomas O'Brien and Ruth Reardon O'Brien, who passed away within days of each other in December 2019. The couple had shared a lifetime of 66 years together, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, love, and remarkable achievements. Dr. Thomas O'Brien was celebrated for his pioneering work in antimicrobial drug resistance research, while Ruth carved out an impressive career in law. Both were admired not only for their professional accomplishments but also for their unwavering commitment to family. Through his reflections, Conan highlights the unique qualities of both his parents, revealing how their distinct personalities complemented each other perfectly.
A Celebration of Two Lives Lived Fully
In the heart of winter, during the month of December 2019, the world bid farewell to two extraordinary individuals—Dr. Thomas O'Brien and Ruth Reardon O'Brien. Dr. Thomas O'Brien, aged 95, transitioned peacefully after a period of declining health on December 9th. Just three days later, his beloved wife Ruth, 92, followed suit on December 12th. Their final journey together was as harmonious as their life had been, having spent 66 years in devoted partnership.
Their son, Conan O'Brien, honored them with heartfelt obituaries that captured the essence of their personalities. He fondly remembered his father as "the dreamer," always embarking on adventurous endeavors, such as planning trips to remote parts of Peru to aid hospitals. In contrast, Ruth was described as "the realist," ensuring the stability and well-being of her family while climbing the ranks at one of Boston's prestigious law firms. Despite their different approaches, both were deeply respected in their respective fields. Dr. O'Brien's groundbreaking research in antimicrobial drug resistance earned him acclaim, while Ruth's ascent to become one of the few female partners at Ropes & Gray marked a significant milestone in her career.
Conan also reminisced about the profound impact his parents had on his life, particularly a seventh-grade trip to South America that instilled in him a lifelong passion for travel. "My father believed that I would learn more from experiencing different cultures firsthand than from any classroom," he said, emphasizing the valuable lessons he gained from these adventures.
Beyond their professional triumphs, the O'Briens were cherished by their children—Justin, Neal, Luke, Kate, and Jane—and nine grandchildren. A joint funeral service held on December 18th in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, celebrated their lives and the enduring bond they shared.
From a journalist's perspective, this story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of balancing ambition with personal fulfillment. The O'Briens exemplified how one can achieve greatness in both career and family life, leaving a lasting legacy of love, hard work, and mutual respect. It is a testament to the power of partnership and the enduring impact of living authentically and passionately.