Betty Ann "BA" Brennan's Obituary
Betty Ann “BA” Brennan passed peacefully in her home on July 27, 2025, at the age of 87.
Born on March 6, 1938, in Wollaston, Massachusetts, to Bob and Eileen Sargent, BA was known for her warmth, wisdom, and quiet strength. She graduated from Quincy High School, where she was active in Chorus, served as a Board Officer, and participated in the Pony Express, Nomination Committee, bowling, basketball (somehow, despite being just under 5 feet tall), volleyball, and softball. She went on to attend and graduate from the Chandler School for Women majoring in their Executive Secretarial program.
BA began her professional journey as Secretary to the Head of the Mathematics Department at MIT. From there, she blazed a trail in the business world, holding executive managerial positions at McGraw Hill, Business Week, and Bell Atlantic (now AT&T), where she retired in 2005. She was a pioneer for women in the workplace—sharp, determined, and unafraid to ask the hard questions. If an answer didn’t sit right, she kept asking until it did. On top of her professional accomplishments, BA was an avid volunteer for Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Red Hats, Nat’l Org for Women (NOW) and AdventHealth Hospital/Palm Coast.
More than her titles or accomplishments, though, BA will be remembered for her character. She was THE best active listener you could ever meet—fully present, compassionate, and unwavering in her support. Though she joined our family not from the very beginning, it never felt that way. Her presence was instantly grounding and gentle, always bridging gaps with quiet love and understanding. Let’s not forget her love of Saint Bernards, having raised six over the span of her life spent with our dad.
She is survived by her best friend, devoted and beloved husband of 51 years, Thomas M. Brennan, Sr., and six stepchildren who loved her dearly: Thomas M. Brennan, Jr. (& wife Ondrea), Timothy D. Brennan, Todd F. Brennan (& wife Donna), Theodore P. Brennan (& wife Tara), Tracey Brennan-Reale (& husband Chris), and Tricia K. Rood (& husband Jeff). BA also leaves behind several step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren and nephews Matthew and Jason Hudson.
BA lived a life of integrity, purpose, and grace. She led with her heart, listened with intention, and loved without limits. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished. We would like to acknowledge AdventHealth Hospice Services for their unwavering support during BA’s most difficult years.
Services will be private. If you would like to make a donation in her honor, please consider Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cape Cod & the Islands (an affiliate of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts) at 684 Main Street, Suite 3, Hyannis, MA 02601, or visit www.capeforgood.org. For more information, you may also call (508) 771-5150.
Heritage Funeral and Cremation Service of Bunnell, FL assisted the family with arrangements. www.HeritageFlagler.com
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