Brian K. McDonnell
January 16, 1979 – September 7, 2026
Brian Keith McDonnell, 47, of Dedham, passed away unexpectedly on September 7, 2026.
He was the beloved son of Noreen and Robert McDonnell Jr. and the loving and only brother to Lisa McDonnell Meehan. He was the proud father to Ava Emerson and Gracie Quinn McDonnell and shared an unbreakable bond with Rachel Forziati McDonnell for over 25 years.
Brian was a devoted uncle to Patrick and Kate Meehan; he was the Confirmation sponsor for Patrick and would often talk with Kate about their faith and love for God.
He left behind his uncle John McDonough and his aunt Ethel LeFave as well as his cousins; Deb LeFave Lentine, Dave LeFave, Luke and Noah Jorgensen, Jona, Matt, and Dan McDonough. Brian was the loving boyfriend of Nicole La Mattina and also left behind more friends than we can count.
Brian was raised in Brighton and graduated from Boston High School. He was an extremely hard worker and was a proud member of the Cambridge Local 151 where he worked as a laborer. He brought laughter and joy to his various jobsites and made many lasting connections throughout the years.
Brian loved hockey and he played for the All-Brite Youth Hockey team as a child. He could be seen in the rink even into his adulthood, playing pickup with his Brighton boys. He was an avid Bruins and Patriots fan, loved music and concerts, and eating out with family and friends.
There was nothing more important to him than spending time with his two girls. Ava and Gracie were his whole world. Brian was always the loudest one cheering on the sidelines at their many sporting events. He proudly shared his passion, encouraging them as they both learned to ice skate and rollerblade. Brian could be heard teaching incredible life lessons that they will carry with them forever.
Brian’s booming voice, infectious laugh, sincere compassion, steadfast friendship, and his giant bear hugs are only a few of the things we will miss most about him.
Visiting hours will be held at the George F. Doherty & Sons Wilson-Cannon Funeral Home at 456 High Street Dedham on Wednesday, September 16th from 4:00-7:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Church at 420 High Street Dedham on Thursday, September 17th at 10:00 a.m. with a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Gosnold Treatment Center, 200 Ter Heun Drive, Falmouth, MA 02540.