{"id":89705,"date":"2026-01-05T14:01:11","date_gmt":"2026-01-05T14:01:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/89705\/"},"modified":"2026-01-05T14:01:11","modified_gmt":"2026-01-05T14:01:11","slug":"olivia-brennan-dies-she-was-at-the-forefront-in-the-drug-abuse-battle-on-staten-island","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/89705\/","title":{"rendered":"Olivia Brennan dies. She was at the forefront in the drug abuse battle on Staten Island."},"content":{"rendered":"

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. \u2013 New York City was in the throes of a heroin and crack epidemic in the early 1990s when Olivia Brennan saw the need for a detox unit on Staten Island. <\/p>\n

As director of the social work department at the former Doctors\u2019 Hospital in Concord, she battled drug abuse with education and intervention by opening a unit that helped addicts through painful withdrawal and into life-saving rehabilitation. <\/p>\n

\"brennan\"Olivia and Judge Michael Brennan were married for 59 years. (Photo courtesy Rachael Brennan)Third-Party-Submitted<\/p>\n

Her death Saturday morning in Richmond University Medical Center, one day after her 81st birthday, inspired memories of a kind and altruistic woman who put the needs of others in front of her own. <\/p>\n

At Doctors\u2019 Hospital, Mrs. Brennan went above and beyond for the recovering addicts under her care, making sure they had clothing, bus fare and a meal before discharge, recalled a former colleague. She accepted patients from all boroughs, and often arranged their transportation to the hospital after receiving a call for help. <\/p>\n

\"brennan\"Olivia Brennan, at center in top row, hosts a reunion of hospital colleagues at her West Brighton home, circa 2020. (Photo courtesy Regina Walsh)Third-Party-Submitted\"brennan\"The former Olivia Garand in her 1966 Notre Dame College graduation photo. (Photo courtesy Rachael Brennan)Third-Party-Submitted<\/p>\n

Friends surmise her generosity in spirit was instilled by her father, a family doctor, and through her calling as a social worker. <\/p>\n

\u201cGrowing up in a small-town Staten Island now long gone, as the daughter of one of our legendary house-calling family physicians, Olivia never lost the neighborly intimacy she was able to maintain with all whom she met,\u201d said District Attorney Michael McMahon, a longtime family friend. \u201cShe knew you immediately and cared for you forever. Her skills as a hospital social worker helped her connect with everyone. She was graceful, gregarious and extremely generous.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"brennan\"Olivia the grandmother with Olivia the granddaughter, at a First Communion dress fitting, circa 2021. (Photo courtesy Rachael Brennan)Third-Party-Submitted<\/p>\n

\u201cHer work truly saved and changed lives,\u201d said State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton in a Women\u2019s History Month tribute last March. \u201cShe was a tireless advocate for Staten Island\u2019s most vulnerable populations.\u201d<\/p>\n

Canadian roots<\/p>\n

The younger of two daughters, the former Olivia Garand was born in Kingston, Ontario, where her father was pursuing a medical degree at Queens University. The family moved to Greenwich Village and settled in Randall Manor when Olivia was in elementary school. <\/p>\n

She attended Notre Dame Academy, Grymes Hill, through grade 12, and earned a bachelor\u2019s degree in psychology from the former Notre Dame College on June 2, 1966. <\/p>\n

\"brennan\"The newlyweds on their wedding day in June 1966. (Photo courtesy Rachael Brennan)Third-Party-Submitted<\/p>\n

Two days later, she married Michael J. Brennan, an Army officer, during a ceremony in the former St. Paul\u2019s Chapel in New Brighton, followed by a reception at the Tavern on the Green, a legendary New Dorp venue. <\/p>\n

The newlyweds moved across the country while Brennan continued his military service. After his return from the Vietnam War and an assignment at the former Fort Holabird in Maryland, they settled in West Brighton. He would later earn a law degree, win election to the New York State Supreme Court and serve as the presiding judge of the Brooklyn Veterans Court through his retirement in 2017.<\/p>\n

Mrs. Brennan began her health-care career at the former U.S. Marine Hospital in Clifton before joining the staff at Doctors\u2019 Hospital, where she spent much of her 47-year career. She earned a master\u2019s degree in social work from New York University, and was licensed as a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC). <\/p>\n

\"brennan\"Olivia Brennan, right, joins colleagues from the Staten Island University Hospital case management department. (Photo courtesy Regina Walsh)Third-Party-Submitted<\/p>\n

After Doctors\u2019 Hospital closed in 2003, Mrs. Brennan joined Staten Island University Hospital as director of case management, and later served as director of inpatient psychiatric services at South Beach Psychiatric Center. <\/p>\n

Also dedicated to local education issues, Mrs. Brennan was elected three times to the Staten Island District 31 School Board in the 1990s, and served a term as its president. She also served with the Staten Island Developmental Disabilities Services Office, volunteered with borough group homes, and was a member of Community Board 1.<\/p>\n

She worked into her 70s as an instructor and adviser at the Manhattan campus of Mildred Elley College, and enjoyed planning reunions with former hospital colleagues who appreciated her career guidance and support. <\/p>\n

\"brennan\"Regina Walsh, left, joins Olivia at a reunion of hospital colleagues. (Photo courtesy Regina Walsh)Third-Party-Submitted<\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t be where I am today if it wasn\u2019t for Olivia Brennan,\u201d said Regina Walsh, who worked with her at Doctors\u2019 Hospital and SIUH. \u201cShe was the kindest woman — a mother to anybody and everybody.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"brennan\"\u201cShe was a mother to anybody and everybody,\u201d said Regina Walsh, right, Olivia Brennan\u2019s friend and colleague. (Photo courtesy Regina Walsh)Third-Party-Submitted<\/p>\n

Wide circle of friends<\/p>\n

With their West Brighton neighbors, Mary and Michael McVey, the Brennans were dedicated organizers of the five-mile Pepper Martin Run, held for many years on the Fourth of July along Forest Avenue. <\/p>\n

The Brennan home on North Mada Avenue was a frequent meeting place for the Pepper Martin planning committee, for bridge club and book club gatherings, and for countless community projects. <\/p>\n

\"brennan\"The Brennans, at left, enjoy a trip to Costa Rica with Dr. Craig and Awilda Campbell, circa 2014. (Photo courtesy Dr. Craig Campbell)Third-Party-Submitted<\/p>\n

\u201cTheir living room was renowned as the \u2018salon\u2019 of the town,\u201d District Attorney McMahon said. \u201cThe gatherings focused on raising funds for those in need, helping Judge Mike and his fellow Vietnam vets, Kiwanians, Hibernians or Road Runners plan the next event, resolving the latest local crisis or issue, including opening up the St. Patrick\u2019s Parade for all, or strategizing for the next Democratic candidate.<\/p>\n

\u201cOlivia was the doyenne of West Brighton,\u201d McMahon continued. \u201cShe was relied upon by the clergy, politicians of all stripes, civic and non-profit leaders, hospital and business executives, and everyday people who needed her help and counsel. She always said \u2018yes.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n

\"brennan\"Olivia celebrates a birthday at Jade Island, New Springville. (Photo courtesy Regina Walsh)Third-Party-Submitted<\/p>\n

Dr. Robert Griswold, a retired Concord dentist, and his wife, Peggy, have appreciated living next door to the Brennans for the last 39 years. <\/p>\n

\u201cSince the first day, Olivia was gracious, loving, unselfish and treated us as part of her family,\u201d he said. \u201cBut Olivia\u2019s family also included a vast array of talented, caring and eclectic Staten Islanders. On any given day, they were at the Brennan house, entertained, schooled and fed by Olivia.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"brennan\"Judge Vito J.Titone after swearing in Judge Michael J. Brennan, with wife Olivia in 1996. (Staten Island Advance\/Frank J. Johns)advance<\/p>\n

Dr. Craig Campbell, a podiatrist and longtime friend, recalled the Brennans\u2019 generosity in 2014 when he and his wife needed a place to stay in between their move from West Brighton to Livingston. <\/p>\n

\u201cWe were their tenants, along with our cat and dog, for eight months,\u201d he shared. \u201cAnd remarkably, we remained friends. Olivia to the rescue, once again!\u201d<\/p>\n

Mrs. Brennan served as county committee woman for the Staten Island Democratic Party, and joined her husband for Kiwanis Club events. They were also active members of the John D. Kearney Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, of which Judge Brennan served as president. <\/p>\n

The Brennans enjoyed visiting Atlantic City, vacationing at the Jersey Shore and exploring European destinations including Ireland, Spain and Sweden.<\/p>\n

Survivors and arrangements<\/p>\n

In addition to her husband of 59 years, the Hon. Michael J. Brennan, and her sister, Alice M. Tobin, Olivia F. Brennan is survived by a daughter, Olivia M. Piccirillo (John); a son, Michael J. \u201cMickey\u201d Brennan Jr. (Rachael), and two grandchildren, Jayden LaManna and Olivia G. Brennan. She was predeceased by her parents, Dr. Norman D. Garand and Olivia F. Garand. <\/p>\n

A wake will be held on Monday, Jan. 5, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Matthew Funeral Home, Willowbrook. A funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday, Jan. 6, at 11 a.m. in Blessed Sacrament R.C. Church, West Brighton. Interment will follow in St. Peter\u2019s Cemetery, also West Brighton. <\/p>\n

Condolences<\/p>\n

District Attorney Michael McMahon: \u201cOlivia was truly one of the last \u2018grand dames\u2019 of Staten Island — a woman whose life spanned multiple generations and who positively impacted the lives of multitudes of fellow Staten Islanders. They broke the mold when they made Olivia Brennan; there may never be another quite like her. Of course, her greatest accomplishment and passion was her family. Judy and I send our deepest condolences. May she rest in peace.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dr. Robert Griswold, retired dentist and longtime friend: \u201cOlivia orchestrated her family time with meaningful commitment to her community. This involved an illustrious career helping countless people as a social worker in many institutions. For Olivia Brennan, this meant unique care for those with special needs in the mental health and handicapped communities. She was there to help anyone, any time of day, long after she retired. Olivia was there to help my family when we needed it the most. Much will be said about her and her wonderful family. Much will be said about the impact Olivia had on all of Staten Island. And it\u2019s all true. Miss you, Liv.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dr. Craig Campbell, podiatrist and longtime friend: \u201cOlivia Garand Brennan was one of the kindest, sweetest, caring persons that I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I became friendly with the Brennan family in 1995 as a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, the Jaques Memorial Committee and Kiwanis Club with Judge Brennan. We became fast and furious friends, and my entire extended family was graciously welcomed at the Brennan home for Christmas dinner every year. Olivia never said \u2018no,\u2019 and year to year we\u2019d find the \u2018regulars\u2019 at dinner, as well as new faces — people going through personal problems, and having no place to go for Christmas. Always the kind social worker, doing God\u2019s work, along with her equally kind husband, \u2018Uncle Mike.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n

Kenneth Mitchell, executive director of the Staten Island Zoo: \u201cThe passing of Olivia Brennan has felt like losing a family member to me. The Mitchells have had a long-standing kinship with the Brennans, the Garands, the Rowans and others in her family circle. When I served as law clerk for Judge Brennan early in my career, I came to know Olivia very well as a special person and good friend. She was always \u2018Aunt Beetie\u2019 to me, available for good advice and a kind word. She possessed old-school wisdom and a genuine dedication to the community. I feel grateful to have shared many endearing times with the judge and \u2018Beetie.\u2019 It was a privilege to know her. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. \u2013 New York City was in the throes of a heroin and crack epidemic in…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":89706,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[39],"tags":[9,24,63,134,136,135],"class_list":{"0":"post-89705","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-staten-island","8":"tag-new-york","9":"tag-new-york-city","10":"tag-nyc","11":"tag-staten-island","12":"tag-staten-island-headlines","13":"tag-staten-island-news"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/89705","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=89705"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/89705\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/89706"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=89705"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=89705"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=89705"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}