Bridget Marquardt Speaks On Mary O’Connor’s Death
‘The Girls Next Door’ star is speaking on the upsetting death of Hugh Hefner’s longtime secretary exclusively to HollywoodLife.com. Keep reading for her fond memories of Mary.
Mary O’Connor, known best for being Hugh Hefner’s beloved secretary for more than 40 years, died on Jan. 27. Mary was featured on The Girls Next Door reality show along with Bridget Marquardt, who spoke to us exclusively about her sad passing.
Bridget Marquardt Speaks To HollywoodLife.com About Mary O’Connor
“I actually knew Mary before I even moved into the mansion. I met Mary when I first moved to L.A. through a mutual friend in late 2001 or early 2002. I went to her and Capt. Bob’s house for dinner and to play cards. Mary loved to play card games and have small parties at her house. So, I’ve actually known her her for about 11 years — 7 for which I was living at the mansion.”
“Mary and I were close. I use to go into her office almost every morning, sometimes alone and sometimes with Holly, and hang out with her chatting, until Hef would come in and chase us out so they could start working!”
“Mary was a confidant that you could always count on. I could vent to her, and she would listen, but even more than that she always had a solution for whatever was bothering me. If she thought it was absurd, she had her way of letting you know that too. She was excited about my opportunities and was an emotional pillar for the down times. I would not have lasted at the Mansion as long as I did without Mary, especially through the first few years.”
Bridget echoed the sentiments of everyone who knew Mary, saying life won’t be the same without her.
“Mary was instrumental at the Mansion in so many ways. I can’t even imagine what life will be like there without her.”
“Mary didn’t mind being on camera, but she didn’t like being the center of attention. She would easily interact with us on camera for the show, but when it came to anything that was about her (like her birthday episode) she would practically run away! She was a dear friend, one that will never be replaced, and she will be missed.”
Playboy Housemates Tweet Sadness About Mary O’Connor’s Death
Hugh first spoke on the news on Jan. 27, tweeting, “Mary passed away today. We loved her more than words can say.”
Bridget also tweeted, “Thank you for all the sweet messages. Mary O’Connor will be missed.#RIPMary.”
Kendra Wilkinson tweeted, “RIP Mary O’Connor. She was an amazing person who helped me through so much. But I know she’s happy with her boo Captain Bob. :)” Kendra also blogged a sweet obituary.
Holly Madison said, “Rest In Peace Mary!”
Hugh’s current wife Crystal Hefner tweeted, “Hef’s long time secretary & my dear friend Mary O’Connor has passed away. It’s a very sad day here at the Playboy Mansion. We love you Mary.”
The Feeling Inside The Playboy Mansion
A source connected to the Mansion tells HollywoodLife.com that people close to Mary, especially Hef, are “devastated that she is gone. She was complete class and super nice and everyone is bummed that she is no longer around. She was everyone’s extra Mom or Grandmother.”
The source added, “It’s just as bad and sad as if Hef passed. She was that important to people.”
WATCH: Mary Plays Cards With Bridget And The Girls
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— Reporting by Dory Larrabee and Russ Weakland, Written by Dory Larrabee
More On Mary O’Connor, Hugh Hefner’s Beloved Secretary:
- Mary O’Connor: Photos Of Hugh Hefner’s Late Secretary
- Mary O’Connor Dies — Hugh Hefner Speaks On Secretary’s Passing
- Mary O’Connor Dead — Hugh Hefner’s Secretary From ‘Girls Next Door’ Dies