Joseph Valentine O'Brien

Joseph Valentine O'Brien, age 92, of Cork City, Ireland, passed away on September 2, 2023, in New York City, NY. Born on February 7, 1931, Joseph was a beloved husband to Margaret P. O'Brien (Gretta) and a devoted father to John J. O'Brien and Paul W. O'Brien.

Joseph received his education at the Sullivan's Quay and the Christian Brothers schools in Cork City, Ireland before starting work as a tax officer for the Irish government in Dublin (1949 to 1955). Upon immigrating to America in 1956, he first worked at Hanover Manufacturer's Trust bank and then at Water Services Laboratories while simultaneously pursuing his Bachelor's, Master's and Doctorate in history at Brooklyn College, Hofstra University, and Columbia University. After completing his studies, Joseph embarked on a distinguished career. His passion for history led him to become a renowned history professor at CUNY's John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York City. Joseph taught European and Irish history to general undergraduate students as well as members of NYC law enforcement, and served as chairman of John Jay's history department for many years. He authored two acclaimed books, "William O'Brien and the Course of Irish Politics 1881-1918" and "Dear Dirty Dublin: A City in Distress 1899-1916," both published by the University of California Press.

Beyond his professional achievements, Joseph had a variety of hobbies. He was an amateur radio operator and even published the Yonkers Amateur Radio Club newsletter for many years. Additionally, Joseph had a love for travel in Ireland and France where he and his wife Gretta immersed themselves in the history of the places they visited.

The funeral services for Joseph Valentine O'Brien were entrusted to Riverdale-on-Hudson Funeral Home, located in Bronx, NY. Joseph was cremated and will eventually be laid to rest in his home town of Cork City, Ireland. The family invites friends and loved ones to join them in honoring Joseph's life and legacy.

Joseph will be deeply missed by his wife, Gretta, his sons, John and Paul, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His dedication to his family, his passion for history, and his warm-hearted nature will be remembered fondly.