Beloved Actress Catherine O’Hara Laid to Rest in Private Memorial

18 February 2026

Catherine O’Hara, the acclaimed actress and comedy icon whose laughter and heartfelt performances endeared her to generations of fans, was laid to rest this past Valentine’s Day during a private memorial service attended by her closest friends and family at St. Martin of Tours Church in Los Angeles. The intimate gathering on February 14 followed her unexpected passing on January 30 at the age of 71, after a brief illness that left the entertainment world in mourning and prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, co-stars and admirers worldwide.

The service was solemn yet deeply personal, as loved ones celebrated O’Hara’s remarkable life and enduring legacy in film, television and comedy. Among those paying homage were fellow performers who had shared the screen or stage with her over the decades, reflecting not only on her boundless talent but also on her warmth, generosity and the joy she brought to those around her. Actress Kelly Lynch shared a poignant tribute on social media, posting a photo of the service booklet alongside a quote from writer Raymond Carver that captured O’Hara’s spirit and the impact she had on so many lives.

Born in Toronto and rising to fame through her work in sketch and improvisational comedy, O’Hara’s career spanned more than fifty years and included unforgettable roles in classics like Home Alone, Beetlejuice and the Emmy-winning series Schitt’s Creek. She won numerous accolades for her craft, from Golden Globes to Emmys, and was celebrated for her ability to blend sharp humour with emotional depth, a talent that set her apart in every project she undertook. Her performances were marked by a unique blend of intelligence, pathos and comic timing that made characters like Moira Rose household names and endeared her to audiences across generations.

In the weeks following her death, which was later attributed to a pulmonary embolism with rectal cancer listed as the underlying cause, friends, co-stars and collaborators honoured O’Hara’s life and career through touching tributes and memories. Eugene Levy, with whom she shared decades of work and friendship, spoke movingly about their bond and the mark she left on the entertainment community. Macaulay Culkin, her Home Alone co-star, expressed deep sorrow, recalling the warmth and humour she brought to both her performances and her personal relationships. These tributes underscored the profound affection and respect she inspired among those who knew her best.

O’Hara’s family, including her husband, production designer Bo Welch, and their two sons, gathered privately to honour her wishes and celebrate the life of a woman who had been a source of laughter, inspiration and joy to so many. The decision to hold a private ceremony reflected the close-knit nature of her family and the desire to mark her passing in a way that was both dignified and deeply reflective of her personal life beyond the screen. In choosing to share moments from the service with the public, loved ones offered a glimpse into the tender reverence with which they commemorated her legacy.

As tributes continue to pour in and fans recall her iconic performances, Catherine O’Hara’s influence on comedy and storytelling remains ever present. She leaves behind a body of work that spans genres and generations, and a memory cherished by colleagues, friends and audiences who found in her performances both laughter and heart. Her private farewell was a fitting testament to a life rich with creativity, friendship and profound humanity.