Conan O’Brien is grappling with the profound loss of both his parents, Ruth Reardon O’Brien and Dr. Thomas O’Brien, who passed away just days apart at their home in Brookline, Massachusetts.

Thomas O’Brien, a celebrated physician, died on Monday, December 9, at the age of 95, and Ruth, a trailblazing attorney, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 12, at 92.

Reflecting on the remarkable life of his father, Conan told The Boston Globe, “Science has said there’s no such thing as perpetual motion, but my father was proof that that was wrong.”

Celebrate Trump's Historic 2024 Victory with the Exclusive Trump 47th President Collection!

The 61-year-old comedian and late-night television host described Thomas as a man who was “interested in everything—absolutely everything.” Thomas’s curiosity and zest for life were defining features of his personality, which Conan recalled with warmth and admiration.

Thomas O’Brien was known not only for his professional contributions to the medical field but also for his vibrant sense of humor.

“He was often the funniest guy in the room,” Conan said, crediting his father with introducing him and his five siblings to comedic legends like Charlie Chaplin and the Marx Brothers.

Conan shared a poignant memory of watching a Pink Panther movie with his father, recalling the uncontrollable laughter that overtook Thomas: “When he would laugh, his whole body would convulse, and he would almost hug himself.”

Such memories underscore the deep bond Conan shared with his father, whose influence extended beyond medicine to the arts and humor that shaped Conan’s own career.

Thomas and Ruth O’Brien’s marriage spanned an incredible 66 years, a testament to their enduring partnership. Ruth’s obituary highlights her impressive academic and professional achievements.

Born and raised in Worcester, Massachusetts, Ruth graduated from Vassar College in 1953 and broke barriers as one of only four women in her law school class.

She was elected vice president of the student government, demonstrating her leadership and commitment to making a difference.

In 1978, Ruth became the second woman to be made a partner at Ropes & Gray, a prominent Boston law firm, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in the legal profession.

While Ruth’s obituary notes that she died peacefully, the loss of both parents in such a short span is undoubtedly a heavy burden for Conan and his family.

The couple’s Brookline home, where they spent their final days together, was a place filled with love, laughter, and memories spanning decades.

The shared family experiences, such as watching classic films and engaging in lively conversations, paint a vivid picture of a household that cherished intellectual curiosity and joy.

Conan’s reflections reveal the depth of his connection to his parents and the indelible mark they left on him. “For the rest of my time on earth, I will be hearing from people who want to talk with me about my dad,” he said.

“I’ve never met anyone like him, and he happens to be my father. If I met him randomly in a hotel lobby, I’d think, ‘Who the hell is this guy? He’s the most interesting person I’ve ever met.’”

As Conan and his family prepare to bid a final farewell, a funeral mass for both Ruth and Thomas will be held in Boston on Wednesday, December 18.

The ceremony will honor the lives of two remarkable individuals whose contributions to their family, community, and professions were profound.

Conan, who shares two children with his wife, Liza Powel O’Brien, has not yet spoken publicly about his mother’s passing.

The depth of his grief is understandable as he navigates this challenging time.

Known for his sharp wit and comedic brilliance, Conan’s humor often stems from a deep appreciation for life’s intricacies—a quality clearly inherited from his parents.

Looking ahead, Conan is set to host the 97th Academy Awards on March 2.

As he takes on this high-profile event, it is certain that the love and lessons imparted by Ruth and Thomas O’Brien will remain a source of strength and inspiration for him.

Their legacy lives on, not only through their accomplishments but also through the family they nurtured and the countless lives they touched.

WATCH THE VIDEO:

The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of RVM News. Contact us for guidelines on submitting your own commentary.