Richard Desmond O'Brien

I miss his wit and wisdom, Richard was a truly refreshing conversationlist, he set a standard amongst his peers. Bob G

I have often thought of Richard and wondered where he was these past few years. I met him while working as a docent at the Springfield Museums. He made such an impression as we all enjoyed his humane and intelligent way of teaching the arts. Never forget a man who is so well spoken and filled with abundent wit and wisdom. He is irreplaceable and a loss to all who knew him. Condolences to the family Paddy Marsh

I had the privilege of knowing Richard first as a next-door neighbor on Spaulding Street in Amherst and much more recently as a fellow docent at the Springfield Museums where he shared his extensive knowledge and genuine warmth. Sending my condolences.

Dear Susan, I just want to send my heart-felt gratitude to having known Richard during his year in BMB and the many years since he retired. Richard was the Dept. Head who hired me, not only while he was in the department but many years later (even till this past X'mas) we have kept in touch, especially when you were still living in Amherst, and he was always interested and supportive of what I was up to. I was impressed by his energy and interests in all the engaging activities he was...

I had the pleasure of meeting Chancellor O'Brien when he and my father worked closely together as UMASS administrators. He was a kind and gentle person. My father told me some wonderful stories of his years working with Chancellor O'Brien. Some of their most productive business meetings took place at the Deli department at Stop and Shop. My father would run into him there and talk about their plans for UMASS. My condolences to the family.

Richard O'Brien was truly an amazing human being - a brilliant scientist, a remarkably effective university leader, an influential educator, and a beacon of kindness and generosity. His impact at the University of Massachusetts as Provost and Chancellor was transformative as he recruited stellar faculty ranging from world-class scientists to Pulitzer Prize winning authors. In addition, he attended to a countless number of innovations which fostered a sense of excellence and community. Many of...

Dear Susan, we send our sincere condolences and deep appreciation for all of Chancellor O´Brien´s contributions to UMass Amherst. With warmest regards, Commonwealth Honors College Community