Obituary of Brenda Lee Geaghan

Brenda Lee Geaghan, 63, passed away surrounded by family on November 22, 2023. She was born March 3, 1960, the daughter of Richard Russell I and Donna (Springer) Russell.

Brenda was born and raised in Bangor, graduating from Bangor High School in 1978. During her time in school, she excelled in her academics and participated in cheerleading. From early on in life she developed close bonds with each of her three siblings that would only strengthen with time. Her sister, Debby, would be a lifelong best friend and trusted confidant. She was both protective and proud of her two younger brothers, Ritchie and Scott, always eager to sing her highest praises for ‘the boys’.

After finishing high school with a 4.0 GPA, she attended the University of Maine on a full academic scholarship for a year before beginning a long career in the service industry. Her fierce humor, endless charm, and razor-sharp wit allowed her to shine in the industry. The tenacity and kindness of her spirit were only matched by the ferocity of her love for those she cared for. Brenda’s laugh carried through a room and would effortlessly bring a smile to your face. Her charisma, beauty, and intellect would be just a few of the many qualities that drew her beloved husband, Pat, to her during this time. The two would go on to fall for one another and build a loving and devoted life together.

Though talented in many aspects of her life, Brenda’s true calling was found in motherhood. After marrying the love of her life, her Patty Joe, and welcoming a child, she continually modeled unconditional love for her family ensuring that not a day went by without demonstrating that love. Brenda lived by the belief that the most significant attribute a person holds is their kindness, and she embodied that belief each day. She gave all of herself to raising her child, prioritizing her daughter’s happiness and wellbeing over her own. Rain, snow, or shine she would stand outside the front door and watch her daughter drive to the end of the road, waving and blowing kisses until they lost sight of each other. Every decision she made and action she took was to ensure that her daughter could lead a joyful, comfortable life. She was a safe haven, a provider of comfort and warmth. Brenda was an extraordinary mother.

Later, Brenda started in an environmental services role at Eastern Maine Medical Center, working during the pandemic to keep spaces clean and safe for patients and other staff. She was loved immensely and unendingly by those closest to her and returned that love in equal measure. With her mischievous grin and a sparkle in her eye, she always remained willing to lend an ear, tell a story or joke, or to offer advice. Brenda had a special place in her heart for children and animals, loved word puzzles and watching horror movies. She was happiest when enjoying the warmth of the sun and the company of her loved ones. Although her battle with cancer lasted a year and a half, neither her strength nor her courage ever waivered. Even as the path became more difficult to traverse, Brenda continued to firmly plant one foot in front of the other facing each new day, each new challenge or change, as they came with her head held high.

Brenda was predeceased by her cherished parents Richard Russell I and Donna (Springer) Russell, as well as her beloved mother-in-law Arline (Harvey) Geaghan. She missed them every day after their passing, as have the rest of the family, and just as the family will miss her every day. Brenda is survived by husband Patrick; daughter Tara Geaghan; sister Deborah Russell and her partner, Dan Potter; brother Richard Russell II and his wife, Lisa; brother Scott Russell; uncle Larry Springer; many special and treasured nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends. Although her absence will be felt each day going forward, her family takes comfort knowing she is now able to rest and has been reunited with all her loved ones that have passed before her. Love is unending.

Brenda’s family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the teams at Lafayette Family Cancer Institute, Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center, and Northern Light Home Care & Hospice for the excellent care they provided.

As requested by Brenda, no services are planned. In lieu of flowers, donations in Brenda’s memory are requested to be made to Lafayette Family Cancer Institute.

Messages and memories may be shared with the family at kileyandfoley.com

Arrangements by Kiley & Foley Funeral Service, Bangor and Brewer.