Brian Edward McMahon

Brian Edward McMahon, of Tower Road, Cortland, passed away during the afternoon on October 26, 2025. He is now with his heavenly Father and the Blessed Virgin Mary, whom he so deeply cherished.

Brian was born April 19, 1953, a son of the late Richard and Shirley “Sandy” Gillette McMahon.

With his traditional family views and Paula’s motherly love, Brian raised seven surviving children, Paulita S. (Geoff) Scott of Woodway, TX; Asa J. (Christina) McMahon of Ithaca; Seth G. (Maya) McMahon of Blacksburg, VA; Nanette E. (Michael) Mitchell of Homer; Lori P. (J.T.) Mitchell of Cortland; Doreen M. (Huan) Schmidt of McGraw; Felice R. McMahon of Austin, TX and Isaiah and Eli McMahon who held a special place in his heart. Brian is also survived by his siblings, Michael (Edie) McMahon, Carol (Duane) Milton, Kevin (Moira) McMahon, Peter (Annette) McMahon, Stephen (Heidi) McMahon, Shawn (Nancy) McMahon and Monica (Tim) Willsey; his sister-in-law, Sadie Ross, and numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was predeceased by two brothers, Thomas J. McMahon and Dr. Daniel P. McMahon as well as a sister, Kathy Lewis.

Brian grew up in a large Irish family. He was a hard-working farm boy.  After high school, he became a businessman and real estate owner. He loved going to auctions and the art of making a deal. He also spent time working at the Cargill Salt Mine in Lansing where he was part of the mine rescue team. At Cargill, Brian survived a horrible mining accident that left his back shattered but not his faith. Later in life he owned and managed Virtue Apartments in Syracuse. He viewed his job as one of service, and he helped so many people. Brian considered his employees and many of his tenants throughout the years to be an extension of his family. 

Brian was a man of deep faith and conviction. He believed in the power of miracles and was a former member of the choir at St. Anthony’s Church of Cortland. In his free time, Brian was a sports fan who rooted for the Yankees. He enjoyed hunting on his large property on the hill, a special place where he felt a profound spiritual connection.

Calling hours (with a Catholic Funeral to immediately follow) are from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 3, 2025 at St. Anthony’s Church located at 50 Pomeroy Street in Cortland. Interment after Mass will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Cortland.

Memorial contributions in Mr. McMahon’s name may be directed to St. Anthony’s Church of Cortland.

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