South Boston Obituary: Brian McDonough, 67, beloved neighbor in the community passed away after a brief illness with cancer

Brian McDonough, age 67, of South Boston, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 7, 2025, after a brief illness with cancer.

Born and raised in Boston, Brian faced the challenges of mental illness from his teenage years with courage and quiet strength. Despite his struggles, he was known by all who loved him as a kind, gentle, and loving man. His warmth made him a cherished presence in the South Boston community, which embraced him with compassion throughout his life. He was a fixture in town and people would always tell us when they had seen him. He was a friendly guy and would always say hello to one and all.

He attended St. Brigid’s school and South Boston High School where he was a member of the hockey team. He was very proud to have played in Boston Garden for the state championship in 1974.

Brian had an enduring passion for Boston’s sports teams, following the Red Sox, Celtics, Bruins, and Patriots with devotion. He was also an avid follower of the news, always eager to keep up with the world around him. His curiosity and insight, even in the face of illness, were a testament to his resilient and thoughtful nature.

He will be sorely missed by his family and community alike. Brian was predeceased by his parents, Harry J. McDonough and Dorothea Ridge McDonough. He is survived by his sister, Barbara Macdonald (Rod), brother John McDonough (Laura Tamagno) and sister Ellen Curley (William). Also, by his niece Devin Miller (John), nephew, Michael Macdonald (Hannah) and nephews Jack and Harry McDonough as well as great nieces Reese and Riley Miller and great nephew David Macdonald.

Funeral arrangements by John F. O’Brien Funeral Home. Calling hours 9:30 -11:30 a.m. September 12, 2025, to be followed by a funeral mass at Noon at Gate of Heaven Church, 615 East Fourth Street, South Boston.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Harry McDonough Sailing Center, PO Box 354, South Boston, MA 02127.

5 Comments

  1. KC September 11, 2025 at 10:40 am - Reply

    +RIP Brian.

    • Gail Lynch September 12, 2025 at 8:31 am - Reply

      R.I.P. BRIAN🙏🏻MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS 🙏🏻☘️

  2. Bobby Gaide September 11, 2025 at 6:27 pm - Reply

    R I P Brian.

  3. Jean Healy September 12, 2025 at 10:43 am - Reply

    so Sorry for the loss of a good man May He Rest In The Sweetest OfPeace 🙏💔💜

  4. Joe Kenneally September 17, 2025 at 4:13 am - Reply

    So sorry for your loss! I spent many summers with Brian down Harry McDonough sailing center. He was a good man

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