Obituary for Brady C. Donnelly

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the untimely passing of Brady C. Donnelly, who left us far too soon at the age of 25. He was preceded in death by his grandfather/”Papa”, Gary Smith. Brady is survived by his loving parents, Laura (Steve) Rettig and Brian Donnelly; his two older sisters, Ashley and Kaley; brothers-in-law, Andy Gandert and Seth Kaylor; nephews, Hudson Gandert and Atlas Kaylor; grandparents, Lily Smith, Gordon (Jane) Donnelly, and Anita (Dave) Williamson; many cherished aunts, uncles, and cousins; and the love of his life, Madison Hughes. 

            A proud 2017 graduate of Kenton High School and a 2021 graduate of Youngstown State University, Brady thrived during his time at YSU, where he worked closely with the football team as an equipment manager. While he earned a degree in psychology, he would probably say (and his family would agree) that the greatest treasure from his time there was finding his soulmate, Madi.

Brady’s next adventure was in Pittsburgh where he joined the staff at UPMC as a research assistant on their NFL Brain Health project for 2 years. After Pittsburgh, Brady joined Madison in Michigan and began working at ABA Pathways where he was deeply dedicated to the children he worked with. His passion for ensuring that children on the spectrum received the best possible therapy was a testament to his caring nature. At the time of his passing, Brady was pursuing a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from Alabama State University. 

            As Markus Zusak beautifully said, “Sometimes people are beautiful. Not in looks. Not in what they say. Just in what they are.” Brady embodied this sentiment. He was a radiant soul, his smile could brighten any room, and his heart was truly golden. The impact he had on those around him cannot be encapsulated in mere words. He lived life fully and undoubtedly made the world a better place. 

            His family invites all who knew and loved Brady to honor and celebrate his life. Funeral services for Brady Donnelly will be held at 5:00 PM on Sunday, September 22, 2024, in the Kenton High School gymnasium. Family and friends are warmly welcome to visit from 2:00 to 5:00 PM on the same day prior to the service.

Schindewolf-Stout-Crates Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements. Memorial donations may be made to The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation – Celebration of Life Fund, where a separate fund will be created to honor Brady, 101 W. Sandusky St. STE 207, Findlay, OH 45840. Online condolences can be expressed to the family by visiting stoutcrates.com.