Laura Branigan Parents: Meet Kathleen O’Hare Branigan and James Branigan Sr

Laura Ann Branigan, the celebrated American singer, was born on July 3, 1952, in Mount Kisco, New York.

She was the fourth of five children born to her Irish-American parents, Kathleen O’Hare Branigan and James Branigan Sr.

James Branigan Sr. worked as an account executive and mutual funds broker, but the couple later separated. Laura’s younger brother, William “Billy” Branigan, was also a musician and played a significant role in her career.

Billy Branigan contributed to Laura’s success by playing guitar in her backing band early in her career. Later, he played a vital role in her 1993 album “Over My Heart” as a co-producer, arranger, guitarist, bassist, and backing vocalist. Additionally, he co-wrote the track “Over You” with his sister.

Sadly, Billy Branigan passed away from a heart attack on March 10, 2022, at the age of 65. Laura Branigan’s maternal grandparents were William O’Hare Jr. and Mary Conway.

Her early years were spent in Armonk, New York, and she attended a Catholic school in nearby Chappaqua during her childhood. For high school, she enrolled at Byram Hills High School from 1966 to 1970, where she even starred in the high school musical “The Pajama Game” during her senior year.

Between 1970 and 1972, Laura pursued her passion for the arts at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City. During this period, she supported herself by working as a waitress. Laura Branigan’s upbringing and early experiences laid the foundation for her remarkable journey in the world of music and entertainment.