Obituary of Brendan Charles O'Reilly

Brendan Charles O’Reilly, beloved son, brother, grandson, cousin and friend, passed away suddenly on Saturday, February 18, 2023 at the age of 23.  Though his passing has left a huge void in the hearts of all who knew him, we will always cherish the many happy memories of Brendan and his presence in our lives.

Brendan was born April 20, 1999 in Livingston, NJ.  Brendan attended St Vincent Martyr School in Madison from Pre-K 3 to eighth grade, and the SVMS community became part of him.  He attended Oratory Preparatory High School and graduated in 2017. Senior year he was MVP of his high school varsity tennis team. 

Brendan attended Fairfield University where he was proud to become a Fairfield Stag, like his mother Colleen.  During college, Brendan enjoyed hosting a radio show, developing many friendships, and living with his friends at the beach.  In 2021, Brendan graduated from Fairfield with a bachelor’s degree in communication.

He was an avid fan of the Mets, Cowboys and Knicks.  He maintained that love season after season even though these teams never did anything other than disappoint him.  While Brendan played many sports, tennis, paddle and ping pong were truly his favorites.

Brendan enjoyed traveling with family to Italy, Hawaii, Florida, and many other places, but his favorite spots were closer to home at Quonochontauge, RI and Stone Harbor, NJ sharing time with extended family and friends. Brendan was often seen carrying his younger cousins on his shoulders or creating a new game to play, enjoying the simple pleasures together. 

Brendan is survived by his father, Philip F. O’Reilly; his sisters Caitlin Ann O’Reilly and Kelly Elizabeth O’Reilly; his grandmother Cam O’Reilly; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.

 He is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Colleen O’Reilly; his maternal grandparents; and his paternal grandfather.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend a visitation for Brendan on Friday, February 24, 2023, from 4-7PM held at the Madison Memorial Home, 159 Main Street, Madison.

A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00AM on Saturday, February 25, 2023, at St. Vincent Martyr Church, Madison. Those who wish may attend the mass virtually at www.svmnj.org

 A committal service for Brendan will follow at Holy Rood Cemetery, Morristown.

 In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions may be made in Brendan’s memory to The ALS Association and the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.