September 4, 2022
Thomas J. O’Brien
Private Service
Thomas (Tom) J. O’Brien, 75, longtime resident of Norwood, passed away on September 4, 2022 at the Dr. Ruth McLain Hospice Home in Braintree after a period of failing health.
Tom was raised in Jamaica Plain and graduated from Dorchester High School. After high school, he joined the United States Air Force. After proudly serving his country for four years, Tom earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts. Tom had an eclectic resume – he was employed as a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service, was a foreman for the James Rudzinski Contracting Company and served as a victim counselor for the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office. Tom retired from the Wrentham Developmental Center in 1996 where he selflessly worked with individuals with intellectual disabilities and made many meaningful friendships over the years.
Tom was an avid reader, history enthusiast and entertaining story teller. He enjoyed the outdoors and nature. He will be especially missed for his sarcastic wit, Irish humor, off-color holiday cards and charming all his nurses.
Tom was predeceased by his parents, Edward L. O’Brien and Edith (McMaster) O’Brien and his brother, Edward L. O’Brien, Jr. He was the brother-in-law of Andrea C. O’Brien of South Weymouth. Tom was the loving uncle of Keri A. O’Brien and her husband, Thomas Portentoso of Pembroke and their three children, Laurel, Genevieve and Vivienne.
Services were held privately for family members.
Donations in memory of Tom may be made to the Dr. Ruth McLain Hospice House located at 670 Washington St. Braintree, MA 02184.