In Loving Memory of Sean O’Reilly

Sean lived a life defined by curiosity, devotion, service, and an unwavering love for the people around him. He was a devoted husband, a loyal friend, a dedicated caretaker, and a man who found great joy in the simple pleasures of good food, good books, good conversation, and good company.

For 46 years, Sean was a proud Master Mason and a dedicated member of Cherrydale-Columbia Masonic Lodge #42. Over the years, he served the Lodge in several roles, most notably as Chaplain. His commitment to the Masonic community reflected the generosity, loyalty, and sense of service that guided so much of his life.

Sean had a wonderfully independent spirit. A self-described Luddite, he was never particularly impressed by technology for technology's sake. He much preferred a good book, a conversation, or an opportunity to learn something new. He was an avid reader and a passionate student of history, particularly medieval European history. He spent countless hours reading, researching, and taking notes, and you never knew when he might surprise you with an obscure and fascinating piece of historical trivia.

His love of food was another important part of who he was. Sean attended culinary school and eventually owned his own restaurant. He was especially gifted in the kitchen, whether creating an omelette, poaching eggs to suit everyone's particular preferences, or quietly and diligently preparing the ingredients for a holiday feast. He was a dedicated prep cook and a joy to share a kitchen with. Sean often said that the best part of a meal was the company, making it clear that, to him, the people gathered around the table mattered far more than the food itself.

Sean also loved playing pool and enjoyed traveling with friends. He especially loved being on the water, finding relaxation and renewal during yearly cruises with Carrie and their friends. He treasured these trips not simply for the places they visited, but for the time spent together.

His working life took him through many different chapters. In addition to his culinary career, Sean worked in construction and later worked for a digital medical records company, where he met the love of his life, his beloved wife, Carrie. In time, Sean became a house husband, embracing the role of caring for his home and the people he loved. Caring for others was never merely something he did—it was one of the ways he expressed his love.

Sean was a fierce defender of those he loved. He was deeply devoted to Carrie, who was the center of his world, and he delighted in caring for his beloved dog and cat companions. He was also thrilled, rather than intimidated, to be surrounded by smart women. He made a point of letting the women in his life know just how impressed he was by their intelligence, strength, and accomplishments.

Sean faced life's challenges with remarkable resilience, becoming a three-time cancer survivor. Through it all, he continued to appreciate the people and moments that made life meaningful.

He was quick to say "thank you" and just as quick to express his gratitude for the time he was able to share with those he loved. That gratitude was perhaps one of Sean's greatest gifts: he understood that life was made richer by the people beside us.

Sean leaves behind his beloved wife, Carrie, his family, friends, Masonic brothers, and all those whose lives he touched. He will be remembered for his fierce loyalty, his curious mind, his dry and independent spirit, his generosity in the kitchen, his love of history and books, his appreciation for travel and the water, and above all, his deep devotion to the people and animals he cared for.

He gave thanks often for the privilege of sharing life with the people he loved. Now, those who loved Sean will carry that gratitude—and his memory—with them.