The Brendan Charles O'Reilly Foundation

is dedicated to honoring the memory of Brendan O'Reilly by awarding educational scholarships to deserving students who embody the kind of kindness that defined Brendan's character.  We envision creating a compassionate community that can be a resource to any student facing the devastating loss of a parent or sibling.  We aspire to ease the burden of grief for families as they navigate a path forward, offering emotional and finanicial support as needed.  We strive to create a legacy of integrity and compassion in Brendan's name.

About Brendan

 

Brendan Charles O’Reilly was born April 20, 1999 in Livingston, New Jersey to Colleen and Philip O'Reilly. Brendan attended St. Vincent Martyr School in Madison from PreK through eighth grade, and the SVMS community became part of him. He attended Oratory Preparatory High School and graduated in 2017. His senior year, he was MVP of the 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. Brendan 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 Quonochontaug, RI and Stone Harbor, NJ, sharing time with extended family and friends. The day he looked forward to each year more than any other was Thanksgiving. The combination of noise, chaos, food, and family gave him tremendous joy. Brendan was often seen carrying his younger cousins on his shoulders or creating a new game to play, enjoying the simple pleasures together. Brendan pretty much always had a lift in his step and a smile on his face. His comfort in his own skin and easy manner made him instantly lovable. One thing that is undeniable is that Brendan gave the best hugs. Any time spent sharing memories of Brendan is both a welcome diversion and a heartwarming celebration of a wonderful kid. Brendan passed away suddenly on February 18, 2023 at the age of 23.