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 involved in many years into his retirement, and I looked forward to the annual X'mas write-up of all your family's adventures over the years.

I send my condolence and best wishes to you and your family.

Sincerely,
Alice Cheung

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 the changes he instituted represented major advances in the functioning of the university, as he consistently supported initiatives to enhance research, teaching, and service to all students. He invited renowned artists, authors, scientists, and internationally influential speakers to campus. Even his support of athletics was intended to raise the national profile of the university, and indeed he succeeded in that effort.
Despite a heavy load of responsibilities in his leadership roles, Dick and his wife Sue were exceptional in their warmth and hospitality. They welcomed many, many people into their home, and they treated everyone with grace and generosity. Our family was exceptionally fortunate to have a cherished relationship with Dick, Sue, Stacey, and Jenny over the years as we enjoyed many evenings at their home relishing fine cuisine, deep conversations, and good humor.
Dick O´Brien will always hold a special place in our hearts and thoughts, and we will be forever grateful for the friendship our family shared with Dick and his family.
With the fondest of memories,
Richard & Lucille Halgin

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

With sorrow for your loss and blessings to ease the pain and grief, Susan, I send my condolences to you and the entire family.

Yemisi

He was a kind generous and most supportive colleague with a wonderful sense of humor and warmth. My deepest condolences Susan..to you and the family.

Sue,
What a beautiful tribute. I'm so very sorry for your loss and am holding you and your family close in my thoughts. May his memory be a blessing.

I met him only once, but have never forgotten that meeting. So sorry for your loss.

Sue, what a lovely tribute to Richard´s life and review of his legacy. Your love for him pours through the words. I´m so very sorry for your profound loss! You and I will be in touch.

His presence enlightened everyone near and far. Richard had a moral compass worth of emulation by those he touched and well beyond. I feel fortunate to have known him and fully enjoyed conversations with this gentle person. He is a giant among men.

A kind and generous man indeed, and a distinguished polymath, with an impressive knowledge - and a deep love - of the sciences and the humanities. Above all, he had a lovely sense of humour and a huge, warm laugh. He was unique.