Photo courtesy of East Haven Memorial Funeral Home, Inc.
1946 - 2018
Wow where did the 50 years go by. I enjoyed the fun times we had. I remember your wedding with Pat. Make every one laugh in heaven. Pat I moved to Fl five years ago so if you wish to visit always have a bedroom for you. Tom Jones
Thomas Jones
October 01, 2019 | Spring Hill, FL | Friend
A fine gentleman with an engaging sense of humor and always a kind word. You will be missed Rich.
Ronald Bailey
January 12, 2019 | Guilford, CT | Friend
It is with profound sorrow that I learned the news of Rich's passing. Always a gentleman with a smile and sense of humor, how enjoyable were the many conversations of Irish heritage and patriotism, sharing the joys of raising our children and their school interactions or just running into each other about town! My deepest condolences to Rich's family on the loss of this awesome husband, father, grandfather and friend. Peace and love, Susan McGowan
Susan McGowan
December 29, 2018 | Branford, CT | Friend
So very sorry about your Dad. May he rest in peace.
Christina Alvarez Whaley
December 27, 2018 | Stratford, CT | Classmate
Great man and grandfather will be dearly missed by friends and family.RIP
John Barbetti jr
December 27, 2018 | Guilford, CT | Friend
I have great memories of Rich going way back to the 70's. I especially loved his quick Irish wit. I enjoyed his company when we worked together at Algonquin Industries in Guilford for many years. I did not see him much over the last few years but when I did see him we had a lot of laughs. He will be missed. My sincere condolences to his entire family and all who were close to him.
Dennis McGinley
December 27, 2018 | Guilford, CT
Pat, Brendan and Erin My deepest sympathy on Dick's death. He was a dear friend and respected co-worker. I loved having him around. I was a better person because of him. Memories of our travels, ball games, parties and work still make me smile. Health issues prevent me from being with you, but I send you hugs. You are in my prayers.
JoAnn Brennan
December 26, 2018 | Northford, CT | Friend
My condolences to Pat and family. I will always remember what a kind, thoughtful man Richard was. He will be greatly missed. ❤
Kim Sandillo (Carafeno)
December 26, 2018 | Branford, CT
Richie great guy always a smile had so many great memories working for his son Brendon he will always be miss God bless the OBrien family
Jack Laggis
December 26, 2018 | Branford, CT | Friend
Richard “Rich” O’Brien, 72, a longtime resident of Branford, surrounded by his loving family passed away on Friday, December 21, 2018 at Yale New Haven Hospital. He was the husband of Patricia S. Proto O’Brien. Rich was born in Derby, CT on February 23, 1946 to the late James and Anna Mae Mulcahy O’Brien. Rich was a graduate of NYU Funeral Service and went on to become a Director and Vice President for the W.S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home in Branford from 1964 to 1984. His last 25 years of employment was with Algonquin Industries of Guilford, until finally retiring in 2009. Richard was also a crossing guard, working an intersection at St. Mary’s School, as well as Eades Street School and worked security at Branford Point for several years. He was a Past President of the Branford Lions Club, receiving both the Knight of the Blind and 2008 Lion of the Year Award. He loved sports and coaching and along with Burt Kahn, founded the Branford Lions Club Basketball Tournament at the community house. He also coached baseball, served on the Branford RTM and volunteered for the Special Olympics.
Besides his wife, he was survived by a son Brendon (Joanna) O’Brien of Guilford, a daughter Erin L. O’Brien of Branford, two grandchildren, Jack and Hayden O’Brien, both of Guilford and a cousin Barbara Stokes of Seymour. Rich was involved in many things during his life but found his greatest joy in watching his grandchildren and their activities. Loved to watch Jack play football and baseball and Hayden play basketball and softball and she was also a fine musician, playing both the flute and saxophone.
There will be a memorial mass at St. Mary’s Church (St. John Bosco Parish) on Thursday morning, December 27, 2018 at 11 am. Burial services will be private and there will be no calling hours. The East Haven Memorial Longobardi – Brennan Funeral Home, 425 Main St., East Haven, 203-467-1708 is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Branford Lions Club, PO Box 406, Branford, 06405 or the Branford Food Pantry (Backpack Program), 30 Harrison Ave., Branford, 06405. Please visit Richard’s memorial page at easthavenmemorial.com and sign his guest book.
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