August 10, 2000 – May 4, 2025
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Brendan J. Donovan of Reading, Massachusetts, aged 24, who tragically lost his life in an accident on May 4, 2025. Brendan is cherished son to Brian F. and Gail M. (Crosby) Donovan, devoted brother to Kate M. Donovan, inseparable twin brother to Sean E. Donovan, adored grandson to Richard J. Crosby, Sr., and deeply loved nephew, cousin, and friend to his family and circle.
Born on August 10, 2000, Brendan shared an unbreakable bond with his brother, Sean. Side by side, they navigated life’s milestones—from childhood adventures to athletic triumphs — always with unwavering loyalty and love. Watching them was their ever-present loving older sister, Kate, whose steady guidance helped shape the close-knit trio. The three are not only siblings, but the best of friends.
Brendan attended Reading public schools and graduated from Reading High School in 2019. An exceptional athlete and champion, Brendan was humble in his accomplishments and served as a quiet, steady leader as captain of the Reading High School Hockey and Golf teams. His passion for and knowledge of all sports was infectious.
Post High School, Brendan found his next home at Keene State College where he developed a passion for the mountains and where he self-taught and became an avid skier and snowboarder. After earning his Bachelor of Science Degree in Occupational Safety and Health Administration, he worked in the field most recently at Phillips Academy in Andover.
Like his Grandfather, Father Brian, and Uncle Rich, he fell in love with golf at Meadowbrook Golf Club as a young lad. Never happier than when on the fairways of Meadow Brook, his endless rounds of competitive golf side-by-side with his golf partner, Liam and brother, Sean led him to earn a place on the wall as Junior Club Champion next to his Grandfather’s Club Champion plaque.
Brendan’s daily routine had him often stopping by Chapel Hill Drive on his way home from work where he would regale his mother with his witty stories and load up on his Mom’s home cooked meals to take to Boston for both Sean and him.
Brendan will be remembered by family and friends as a humble, kind, and pure-hearted soul who expected nothing of others and who was simply motivated to be present with others.
Together with his siblings, Kate and Sean, and his cousins, Patrick and Riley, Brendan helped create a wide, ever-growing circle of friendship that spanned from childhood through young adulthood. He and Sean ran as a pack with many of the same boys who remain by their side today—a bond that shaped the deep, lasting connections Brendan carried throughout his life.
Among the most cherished times and memories are those spent with extended family and friends at the family’s vacation home in Kennebunk, including celebrations of Memorial Day, the 4th of July, and Labor Day.
Brendan approached life with thoughtfulness, always considering the impact of his actions on those around him. His kindness was evident in everyday gestures—a listening ear, a word of encouragement, a helping hand.
Though his time with us was brief, Brendan’s impact is profound. His legacy of kindness, friendship, compassion, and quiet strength touched all who knew him and will continue to inspire and guide us.
A visitation will be held for Brendan at the Douglass, Edgerley, and Bessom Funeral Home 25 Sanborn Street (corner of Woburn Street) Reading on Friday, May 9 from 3-7 pm. Funeral services and burial are private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Brendan’s memory to the Brendan Donovan Scholarship Fund. Checks can be made payable to the Town of Reading and mailed to Town of Reading, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, MA 01867 Attn: Diane Morabito. Please put Brendan Donovan Scholarship in memo line of check.
