Tribute Wall
Sunday
21
May
Visitation at Funeral Home
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Sunday, May 21, 2023
Fredrick J. Chapey & Sons Funeral Home, Inc.
1225 Montauk Hwy
West Islip, New York, United States
Monday
22
May
Visitation at Funeral Home
4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Monday, May 22, 2023
Fredrick J. Chapey & Sons Funeral Home, Inc.
1225 Montauk Hwy
West Islip, New York, United States
Monday
22
May
Ancient Order of Hibernians Service
6:15 pm
Monday, May 22, 2023
Fredrick J. Chapey & Sons Funeral Home
1225 Montauk Hwy
West Islip, New York, United States
(631) 661-5644
Tuesday
23
May
Funeral Mass
9:30 am
Tuesday, May 23, 2023
St. Joseph's R.C. Church
39 North Carll Avenue
Babylon, New York, United States
Final Resting Place
St. Joseph's Cemetery
Old Farmingdale Road
Babylon, New York, United States
Obituary
Brian Michael Maher died peacefully and surrounded by his family on May 19, 2023. He was the devoted husband of 49 years to Barbara (Goble) Maher; cherished son of Thomas and Marguerite Maher (deceased); proud brother of Thomas Maher and brother in law to Betty (Ash) Maher, Meg Goble, James Goble (Jane), and Eileen (Goble) Connelly; loving father of Danny, Timmy, and Kara (Darrell) and father-in-law of Richard Darell and Carly (Pritchard) Maher; and doting grandfather to Molly, Grace, Brian, Abby, and Teddy. His extended family includes all those he encountered during a life dedicated to the pillars of his Dominican education: community, ministry, study, and prayer.
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Known affectionately as Beamer, Brian was raised in Sea Cliff where he attended St. Boniface Elementary School and graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Manhasset. In a decision that would profoundly influence the rest of his life, he matriculated at Providence College in the fall of 1964. He maintained a relationship with the institution spanning 55 years through organizing numerous reunions for his fellow members of the class of 1968, serving as both New York and National Alumni President, and being conferred a doctorate degree in 2019. The link between Brian and Providence College’s will continue in perpetuity with the establishment of a scholarship bearing his name to fund the education of deserving Catholic school students from the New York City boroughs. Upon graduation from college, Brian had a short stint as an accountant at Grumman before deciding on a change in career to become a business education instructor at the recently opened St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School. It was here where he met his wife, Barbara. Although his tenure at the high school was short, his legacy was long lasting. He was named to the school's inaugural Development Board in 1990, inducted into its Hall of Fame in 2002, and honored with the Gentlemans’ Dinner Man of Vision Award in 2010. After leaving St. John the Baptist, he spent 2 years as an administrator at the Henry Viscardi School before moving on to the State University of New York at Farmingdale where he worked for 40 years, ascending to the position of Dean of the Equal Opportunity Center and receiving the Board of Regents Chancellor Award in 2010.
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While his career achievements are notable, at the core of Brian’s being was his deep commitment to Catholicism which was instilled in him by his parents. He found comfort in times of triumph and tribulations through attending daily Mass, participating in adoration, and praying the Rosary. Since 1975, Brian and Barbara have been parishoners at St. Joseph Parish in Babylon, a community which has allowed them to enrich their faith and make lifelong friends. Brian was asked to serve as a trustee of the parish in 2022. In addition, Brian chaired numerous committees and events for the Irish-American fraternal organization, The Ancient Order of Hibernians; served as the longest tenured treasurer for the Babylon Yacht Club; volunteered at the Opening Word literacy program; organized tournaments for the Eastern Amputee Golf Association: and performed at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and Radio City Music Hall with the Hibernian Festival Singers. He could also be coerced into composing and performing a song parody on special occasions for his family and friends. In a life replete with accomplishments and accolades, Brian always maintained a sense of humility. He was fond of saying, “Who has it better than me?” He will be sorely missed by those whose lives he touched, however, they can take solace in knowing he led a joyful life of personal, professional, and spiritual fulfillment.
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Reposing at The Fredrick J. Chapey & Sons West Islip Funeral Home, 1225 Montauk Hwy. (1/4 mile west of the Robert Moses Cswy.). Celebration of the Liturgy of Christian Burial Tuesday, 9:30 AM at St. Joseph’s RC Church, Babylon, LI. Interment to follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Visiting Sunday 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM and Monday 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM. In lieu of flowers Please consider a donation to the "Brian Michael Maher '68 Family Scholarship Fund" at Providence College. This was established by the family to grant scholarship dollars to NYC Catholic School students with significant financial need. Please contact sduryea@providence.edu for funding optionswww.chapeyfamily.com
In Lieu of Flowers
Please consider a donation to the "Brian Michael Maher '68 Family Scholarship Fund" at Providence College. This was established by the family to grant scholarship dollars to NYC Catholic School students with significant financial need.
Please contact sduryea@providence.edu
for funding options
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Jim Benedict posted a condolence
Thursday, May 25, 2023
I am so sad to hear of Brian’s passing. As the student manager of our basketball team, during my tenure there, he was a full member of the team with ongoing support humor, and friendship. We always had a good time reminiscing about our times on the road and throughout the season. Brian was a man of deep faith which was evident even from our days at PC and he shared and inspired so many of us throughout his life. His personal support of his family and friends, support of meaningful community endeavors, and his career accomplishments will always be remembered but, hopefully, his love for life, enthusiasm, kindness, and sensitivity to the needs of others will be lived out by all of us as we keep his spirit alive in our own daily activities. My heartfelt condolences and prayers are with all of you.
Jim Benedict ‘66
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Brenda posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 24, 2023
So sorry to hear of Mr Maher’s passing. I have many wonderful memories of him and Mrs Maher during my years at SJB. You are all in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Brenda Eble Cremins
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Louise Napolitano-Carman posted a condolence
Monday, May 22, 2023
Brian was a most beautiful human being. We were colleagues at Farmingdale State College. His kindness, empathy, selflessness touched so many people. He will be missed by so many. My condolences to his family.
Louise Napolitano-Carman
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George Schmitt lit a candle
Monday, May 22, 2023
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I was taken aback last Friday when I was told that Brian had died. Friday mornings from 10:00 to 10:15 a small group of AOH related people met at the Babylon Beach House Senior Living to pray the Rosary. Brian was usually a few minutes late, but he'd get there. This past Friday he was on his last journey to be with our God.
When I was thinking of him, last Friday I said to myself, certainly a lifelong teacher, but not just in the traditional classroom sense, but in living his life. He never stopped giving to all who encountered him the example of how to be a strong Christian. He certainly taught me what it means to live a Christian life. He'll never be forgotten by me and so many others. Maher Family, thanks for sharing him with us.
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Sharon and Charlie lit a candle
Monday, May 22, 2023
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We were so sorry to hear of Brian's passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Brian was a very loving, caring person who did so much for so many. He will be dearly missed.
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Jim Skopek ('76) lit a candle
Monday, May 22, 2023
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Tom Sieminski lit a candle
Monday, May 22, 2023
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My longest (55years) and best friend
. Providence College has a way about it. A special feeling that, oddly, it wraps itself around you. I felt it instantly when I first stepped on the campus. You made it stronger when you got me into The Friars Club as a freshman. You put me under your wing and guided me through those formative years. After graduating, you got me the biology teaching job at SJB. I didn’t even want to teach but you insisted and I had a great 30 year career teaching and coaching. Thank you for doing that for me. Tax season was always a call to Beamer. Games and lunches with Jack and Schneider were laugh fests where belly laughs were automatic and endless. I was at a loss when my mom passed away and I couldn’t think of who could speak at her funeral. I asked you to please share your thoughts and you did at that difficult time and you were so supportive and kind. I thank you. I am going to miss you, my friend, but I’m relishing the impact you had on me and the impact you have had on so many. You’re in my thoughts, my heart and my memories always. Barbara and the family can call on me for anything. I love you.
T Sieminski
Thanks again.
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Antoinette O. posted a condolence
Monday, May 22, 2023
So sorry to hear about Brian's passing. It was great knowing and working with him on "Neighbor 2 Neighbor" at Telecare.
My condolences to his family. And as Brian used to say, "Today try and be a good Neighbor". RIP
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Tania Nagel lit a candle
Monday, May 22, 2023
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Michael C Vogel lit a candle
Monday, May 22, 2023
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I was saddened to read about the passing of Brian. I rummaged through the SJB yearbook of '73 to see the old photos of Brian with different members of my class. He was so connected to the school and to the student body, an integral fiber in the lives of so many of us. He always had a smile, a calm and quiet disposition, and a positive word to share. I pray that you will be lifted up, loved and supported by your family and friends during this difficult and challenging time.
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Melinda Anderson lit a candle
Monday, May 22, 2023
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Kathie Uhler Posted May 22, 2023 at 10:39 AM
From Day One when I met Brian in 1969 at SJB he stood out of all of us on the Faculty. To me he was a natural convenor, an unofficial ambassador of esprit de corps. What a grand person! I appreciated being on his weekly email message list ever since the 50th Reunion. RIP From (Sr.) Kathie Uhler OSF
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caron lit a candle
Sunday, May 21, 2023
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Dear Barbara, Kara & Rich, Tim & Carly and Dan,
Know that you were the center of Brian's life and the love spread out to so many. Thinking of all the wonderful memories, I am. So many people were encouraged to be better by Beamer's example. He was always making connections and working to include people in the good life! Sad to know he will not be smiling at another party but I know he is in a better place. Countless people are better for having known Brian Maher! Certainly, the Tuesday crew, the SIS community and I are among them. Brian was a fabulous person, family man, husband, father and grandpa! There is no higher accolade! He adored being a grandfather, nineteen years ago he was bursting with joy awaiting Molly's arrival and he always had an extra sparkle in his eye when he spoke of his grandchildren. Brian treasured his morning routine with escorting Abigail to the school bus stop. Of course, being Beamer, he became endeared to the others at the bus stop. Know that my family and I hold you all in prayer and look forward to supporting and comforting you. Thank you for sharing Beamer with so many to make the world kinder, more gentle and loving. Please know i am only a phone call away. Big hugs from all the Duffys! Peace and Love, Caron and family
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Kevin Myles posted a condolence
Sunday, May 21, 2023
It is with heartfelt sympathy that I remember Brian ( Flippy). We grew up together in Sea Cliff many years and memories ago. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you, special greetings to Jerry.
Fondly, Skeet Myles
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Pat Monti posted a condolence
Sunday, May 21, 2023
Deepest condolences to Barbara and the Maher family. Beamer was one of kind. He was a great friend, a mentor, a person of deep conviction and a very kind and caring person. The PC family will miss him dearly.
RIP Beam
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Nancy Hamilton Rose posted a condolence
Sunday, May 21, 2023
May Brian rest in peace and rise in glory. I live in Sea Cliff and remember Brian as an infant with his wonderful mother. We were 2nd cousins since Marguerite and my father, Gordon Hamilton, were 1st cousins. Age and disability prevent me from attending his Mass, but I most sincerely send condolences to Barbara, his children, grandchildren, and brother Thomas. Brian's accomplished life will live in the hearts of all who knew him. Nancy Hamilton Rose
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Pritchard Family posted a condolence
Sunday, May 21, 2023
Through Carly and Timmy’s marriage the Pritchard family like so many others was touched for the better by Beamer and all the Mahers. Beamer’s joyful gift of love and friendship will always be cherished.
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Patty Swanson posted a condolence
Sunday, May 21, 2023
Luc and I send our deepest sympathies to Barbara and the rest of the Maher family. I knew you both from St. John the Baptist and from our parish, St. Joseph’s. I was shocked when I heard Brian had passed when they announced it at mass this morning. May Brian Rest In Peace and may you find comfort in knowing he touched many lives.
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Mari posted a condolence
Sunday, May 21, 2023
Tim and Mari Hanley send sincerest condolences to the Maher family.
Barbara Maher,
We are sorry for your family’s loss of Brian whom we at St John the Baptist high came to know and love.
These messages weigh heavy on our hearts, knowing that as we age together as the class of 1970, we will face the loss of dear friends and classmates.
“The life of one we love is never lost...its influence goes on through all the lives it ever touched.”
We are so blessed to have known Brian Maher.
Mari & Tim Hanley
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Donna Brian Flood lit a candle
Sunday, May 21, 2023
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I shall forever cherish the memories of you in our hearts. Much love and support to Barbara and your family.
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Hubert and Sally Keen posted a condolence
Sunday, May 21, 2023
I will be forever grateful for the life lessons I learned from Brian Maher. My heart’s sincerest condolences are with Barbara and Brian’s family.
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peppermintpat11040@yahoo.com lit a candle
Saturday, May 20, 2023
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So very sorry to hear of “Beamers” passing. He truly was one of a kind! My deepest sympathies to his family . Rest In Peace Beamer! You will be missed!
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Fr. Joseph J. Guido, O.P. posted a condolence
Saturday, May 20, 2023
My condolences to Brian's wife and children, and his extended family. He was a good, faithful and loving man whose life honored his beloved alma mater, Providence College. For many years he sent me a copy of his weekly columns and never failed to send greetings to the Dominican Friars on major feast days. I will offer Mass for him and those who love him, and trust that he will intercede for us all in the company of the saints.
Fr. Joseph J. Guido, O.P.
Providence College
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Barbara Cinque Reuschle lit a candle
Saturday, May 20, 2023
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Brian Maher was an amazing teacher and friend. I’m so happy I had the chance to see him in October, at SJB class of 71 reunion. My condolences to Barbara and the Maher family.
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Jack Desmond posted a condolence
Saturday, May 20, 2023
When I first heard that Beamer had passed, I felt sorry for myself because losing my friend left such a hole in my life. That's where Brian distinguished himself from everyone else. His first thought was always for friends and family rather than self. I have many friends I love, but Beamer was the best of us. As another of our friends said; Beamer was the glue that held the Class of 68 together. Reunions, the Fall Classic, any ad-hoc gathering will be diminished without his presence. Brian was a man of faith; living the life of his Catholic upbringing. I will miss you more than I can imagine.
Jack Desmond
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Fran Redmond Gibson posted a condolence
Saturday, May 20, 2023
My condolences to Barbara and the Maher family. Brian was such a nice person. Wanted to share one of my favorite memories of him that I have thought about many times over the years when people are trying to make special wedding memories.
When Brian and Barbara were going to be married, he spent many hours making a special gift for her. It was a treasure chest that he covered with memorabilia of their dates, etc. Photos, tickets, etc. !! It was stunning! He would be so excited to keep showing me his progress .
This joy of giving to others was always a part of his being!
I lost touch with Brian and Barbara as we moved on in our lives but reading all these beautiful tributes I realize he continued to be a special man giving joy to others! RIP
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Kathy & Jerry Mackey posted a symbolic gesture
Saturday, May 20, 2023
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Brian has gone to his well-earned reward in Paradise, but we are left with a gaping hole in our hearts. Eventually the pain will lessen and the hole will be jam-packed with all the many memories he left us. He was a truly devoted, Godly man, who “walked the walk and talked the talk…
I’m jealous of the angels around the throne tonight.”
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Jeff Wendth posted a condolence
Saturday, May 20, 2023
I like so many others on the receiving end of Brian’s “It’s Tuesday” email am saddened to learn of his passing.
What a remarkable man Brian was! His faith and devotion to supporting others in their times of need was unsurpassed. He touched the spirit and souls of countless individuals - forging an incredible legacy for himself.
Knowing that he was so looking forward to his 50th PC Reunion in a couple of weeks, I can only imagine Brian’s entrance into the much more significant and eternal reunion taking place in heaven right now.
My condolences to Brian’s family and loved ones.
Jeff Wendth
PC ‘82
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Carol Bell posted a condolence
Saturday, May 20, 2023
I was truly saddened to hear of Brian’s sudden passing. He stood out amongst all the educators I had at SJB as a very compassionate man with a sparkling smile and great sense of humor. My condolences to his family.
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Mike Spatola uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, May 20, 2023
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Friendship transcends death. Memories made will never be forgotten and created a lasting impression on those they left behind. Everyone became a better person for having such a wonderful friend.
Brian Maher was a blessing, to me and all those who had the privilege of having him as a teacher and friend. Simply put, "Beamer" was a gem. I had no greater fan, advisor and teacher at St. John the Baptist than Brian Maher. His is a life to celebrate. My wife Pam and I offer our deepest condolences. Barbara and the entire Maher family, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
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Sr. Stella DeVenuta, OSF uploaded photo(s)
Friday, May 19, 2023
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We, the planning team of SJB's class of 1970 50th Reunion, were grateful to have had Brian as a part of two long years of near monthly "ZOOM" meetings to plan the event due to the Covid-delay! Now hearing about Brian, reminds us what a blessing that extra year was for us… a "BLESSING in DISGUISE!”
Thank you Brian for the love and energy you brought to us as a beloved teacher and as a partner in planning the reunion in April 2022.
Deep Peace and Condolences to all who loved him especially
Barbara his loving wife.
L-R -Brian Maher, Bob Paine, Joanne Naso, Stella DeVenuta, OSF, Michele Infante, Kevin Tobin
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The Simone Family lit a candle
Friday, May 19, 2023
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Our thoughts are with the entire Maher family. The St. Joseph's Bulletin will not be the same without Mr. Maher's weekly message.
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The family of Brian M. "Beamer" Maher uploaded a photo
Friday, May 19, 2023
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West Islip
1225 Montauk Hwy
West Islip, NY 11795
(631) 661-5644
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(631) 581-5600
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