John Brendan Cleary, 66, of Smithfield passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017.  Brendan was the son of the late Dr. Thomas John Cleary and Faith Hughes Cleary.  Born in New York state, Brendan had been a resident of Smithfield for the past 40 years.  He worked as a lab supervisor at Riverside Regional Medical Center.  Brendan was a life member of the Smithfield Volunteer Fire Department, a proud member of the Sons of the Confederate Veterans and attended Trinity United Methodist Church.  Through all of his work and community accomplishments, Brendan was most proud of his family.  

He dearly loved his wife of 35 years, Sandra Williams Cleary; his sons, Brendan Hunter Cleary and Chase Williams Cleary; and especially grandson, Maddox Williams Cleary.  Brendan is also survived by sister, Maureen Faith Cleary and nephew, Gary Chiaramonte; brother, Thomas Roy Cleary (Maureen); sister, Jo-Anne Faith Cleary; sisters in law, Rebecca Williams Hannah (Robert) and Patricia Williams; mother-in-law, Barbara W. Williams. He was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Max M. Williams.  

Brendan had a passion for the outdoors and enjoyed fishing and hunting.  He was a self-taught craftsman and enjoyed sharing his skills with his sons, Hunter and Chase.  His first and only grandchild, Maddox, brought him immense love and joy.  Brendan and his sons are tried and true New York Mets fans.  
A funeral service with Fireman’s Honors will be held on Friday, Sept. 1, 11 a.m. at Little’s Funeral Home, Smithfield, with the Rev. Leon Basham officiating, followed by a reception at the Smithfield Volunteer Fire Department.  The family will receive friends on Thursday, Aug. 31, 6 – 8 p.m. at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions may be made in Brendan’s memory to the Smithfield Volunteer Fire Department, 1804 S. Church St., Smithfield, VA 23430.  Condolences may be registered online at www.littlesfuneralhome.com