The O’Connell family and the wider Timonium community are heartbroken to announce the sudden and tragic passing of Brendan Matthew O’Connell, who died in a car accident on the night of Wednesday, September 17th. Brendan was 49 years old.

His loss leaves a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Born in Washington, DC, Brendan was the eldest of Elizabeth (Betsy) Terlep and Kevin O’Connell’s five children.

From the very beginning, he displayed a vibrant personality—precocious, engaging, and endlessly warm. His signature booming voice and welcoming smile made him instantly recognizable, and his ability to turn strangers into friends was one of his defining qualities.

Brendan lived his life in service to others, embodying Gonzaga College High School’s motto of “Men For Others” when he graduated with the Class of 1994.

He continued his education at Hampden-Sydney College, earning his undergraduate degree in 1998, and later received his law degree from the University of Baltimore School of Law.

Professionally, Brendan thrived in a variety of industries, including hospitality, finance, and most recently, real estate and property management. His adaptability and broad skillset reflected not only his talents but also his determination to embrace new challenges with optimism.

Above all else, Brendan’s greatest pride and joy were his two sons, Carter (19) and Briggs (17). They were the center of his universe. Whether cheering from the sidelines of lacrosse and football fields or supporting them on golf courses across the region, Brendan’s immense pride in his sons was visible to everyone around him. His chest would swell with joy as he watched them grow, compete, and thrive.

Sports were a lifelong passion for Brendan himself. He was an accomplished lacrosse player, leaving his mark at both the high school and collegiate level before continuing in men’s leagues well into adulthood.

Beyond lacrosse, he was an avid sailor, racing crews across the Chesapeake Bay and even the Caribbean, always eager for adventure. A close friend once described him as a “natural-born grinder,” a reflection of his perseverance and passion in both athletics and life.

To his family, Brendan’s tender side shone brightest. His mother’s most cherished memories are of him gently cradling his newborn sons, nieces, and nephews, his large hands holding them with remarkable tenderness. His Irish heritage fueled his welcoming spirit, and to meet Brendan was to feel instantly like family.

Brendan’s larger-than-life personality was balanced by a quiet, caring nature. He was selfless, loyal, and dependable, qualities that earned him the love of countless friends who will forever remember his generosity and companionship. His sudden passing is a devastating tragedy, but his memory will live on in the lives he touched.

Brendan is survived by his sons, parents, stepmother Laurette, siblings Megan, Roddy (Lisa), Danny (Hélène), and Patrick (Joey), as well as a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and innumerable friends.

A viewing will be held Monday, September 22, at Ruck Funeral Home in Towson, with a Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, September 23, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Rockville. A reception celebrating his life will follow at Manor Country Club, with private interment to take place later in the week.

In lieu of flowers, a fund has been established to support the scholarship and pressing needs of Brendan’s beloved sons.