We are deeply saddened by the passing of John O’Brien.
John was and will always be a cornerstone of Rock 102’s history, remembered fondly by countless friends and colleagues.
Among his many contributions, one of the most enduring is the Mayflower Marathon Food Drive. John helped launch this incredible event 32 years ago, and thanks to his vision, it continues to make a lasting impact in our community.
This year’s Marathon has now wrapped up, and we’re proud to carry on the tradition in his honor. If you’d like to support a cause that meant so much to John, please consider making a donation to the Open Pantry in his memory.
Obituary
John P. O’Brien, 65, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family after a 13-year battle with Melanoma. John was a 1979 graduate of Enfield High School and the Connecticut School of Broadcasting. He was a local radio personality for over 30yrs, best known for his morning radio show Bax and O’Brien and most recently with IHeart Radio where he hosted his own podcast OB Negative. John was inducted into the Massachusetts Radio Hall of Fame in 2022 which was a highlight of his many years entertaining listeners across New England
John’s unique personality was his strength, and he loved talking about a variety of issues that made some people happy and others upset. He would always look at life half empty but without him even realizing it, he made people think. He was always sharing difficulties in his own life on the air which on many occasions helped others deal with their own challenges.
John is survived by his loving mother, Rita Langlois and his stepfather John Langlois both of Enfield, a brother Tim O’Brien and his wife Kym from Wilbraham MA and brother Dan O’Brien from Florida. John was predeceased by his father John J. O’Brien. He also leaves behind his loving nieces and nephews Eric, Kevin, Colin and Sarah O’Brien. He will also be missed by his many friends, especially his Thursday Night Dinner Crew who supported him throughout his health challenges and any other issue he decided to share with them.
John would also thank all of his fans and listeners, he had a love/hate relationship with his fans, but when he was no longer on the radio, it was the one thing he missed
Relatives and friends may join the family at Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels,61 South rd., Enfield, CT on Sunday, November 30, 2025 from 11:00am to 3:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Melanoma Research Foundation @ melanoma.org For online condolences visit leetestevens.com
