Brian O'Meara

Nov. 19, 1947 – Aug. 6, 2024 

Brian passed away at the Lennox & Addington General Hospital after suffering ill heath for many months. He died holding the hand of his loving wife Mary. Brian will be deeply missed by Mary, his two step-children Angela Smith (Brad) of Belleville and Dan Raymond (Angela) of Ottawa. His four grandchildren will dearly miss their Grumpie, Noah Duffin and Braden Smith of Belleville and Claire and Miles Raymond of Ottawa. Brian is survived by his dear sister Kathy Velocci (Rich) of Vernon, B.C., brothers and sisters-in-law Denis (Betty) Gauthier of Calabogie and Andy (Annmarie) Davis of Smiths Falls. Brian will also be lovingly remembered by his many cousins in Canada, Ireland and England. Brian was pre-deceased by his parents Ed & Mary O’Meara (Lenihan), father and mother-in-law Noah & Mary Gauthier and brother-in-law Paul Gauthier.

Brian was born in Ottawa and spent parts of his childhood in different cities in Ontario and then two years in Rome as a young teen due to his fathers employment. He attended St. Francis Xavier University which he describes as one of the best years of his life. He started his newspaper career at the Oakville Journal Record as Sports Editor. In 1976 he moved to Belleville to take up the position of Sports Editor with his side-kick Addy Vos. His column Rubber Sole was widely read. After too many early mornings as Sports Editor, Brian moved on to City Editor at the Intell and ended his career as Managing Editor at the Trentonian.

Brian and Mary enjoyed many happy times at their cottage on Cashel Lake creating so many happy memories with great friends and family as well as many beloved dogs. He was dearly loved and will be missed by so many. He had many close friends and he cherished their friendships.

A Celebration of Brian will be held at the Dugout Restaurant, Belleville on Saturday, August 24, 2024 from 1-4pm. Mary wishes to thank the staff at the Palliative Care Unit in Napanee for the kind and compassionate care they provided to Brian and his family in his final days.

Friends desiring may contribute in memory of Brian to the L&A Hospital Foundation with appreciation. Online memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.milestonecremation.ca

Floral Arrangements can be ordered from a Florist in Belleville.