Norton Cornelius "Neil" O'Brien Jr.

Norton Cornelius “Neil” O’Brien Jr., a longtime resident of Hingham, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 30, 2025. He was 86.

He was born in Boston to Mary A. (Kelly) and Norton Cornelius O’Brien and raised in Dorchester. After graduating from Christopher Columbus High School, Neil enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving his country. Following his service, he earned his bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He later went on to complete his master’s degree in education. His education nurtured a lifelong passion for teaching, and he went on to devote more than 40 years to his students at Charlestown High School.

Neil was generous with his time and his heart. For three decades he volunteered with Meals on Wheels and Fr. Bill’s, and he dedicated 40 years to supporting the Special Olympics, an organization that brought him immense joy and pride. When he wasn’t volunteering, Neil could often be found on the softball field. He cherished staying active and valued the camaraderie of being part of a team. He played well into his 70’s and would have kept going if he could. Neil was also a lifelong Boston sports fan, and nothing delighted him more than seeing the Red Sox finally reverse the curse. The pure happiness it brought him during that long-awaited World Series win is a memory his family will forever cherish.

Neil will be remembered for his humor, generosity, love of storytelling, and the humble, grateful spirit he shared with everyone around him.

Beloved husband to the late Emily A. (Snow) O’Brien. Devoted stepfather to Sharon Conti, and adoring grandfather to Marie and Vanessa Conti, who brought him great joy. Cherished uncle to William O’Brien Jr., Diane Brooks, Timothy O’Brien and Mark O’Brien. Also survived by many grandnieces and grandnephews. Preceded in death by his dear brother William O’Brien and his wife Joann.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, from 9:30-10:30 AM in the Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, 21 Emerald St. (off Central St.), HINGHAM. A Celebration of Life Service will be held in the funeral home at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, prior to the Funeral Mass in St. Paul’s Church, Hingham at 11 AM. Burial in St. Paul’s Cemetery, Hingham.