Belchertown- Brian L. O'Leary, 85, passed away on September 24, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 20, 1938, Brian's life was a journey filled with love, music and service.  Brian was predeceased by his parents, John and Beatrice (Pariseau) O’Leary, his brothers John and Douglas O’Leary, and his wife, Mary (Walsh) O'Leary. He is survived by his devoted husband, Robert McCarthy, who stood by his side with unwavering love. His leaves his children: Gail (John) Klanchesser, Joanne (Anthony) Listro, and John (April) O'Leary. He leaves behind his brother, Richard (Suzanne Almy) O'Leary, as well as 12 cherished grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.After his family, Brian had two main passions:  transportation and music.  As a child he enjoyed many hours with model trains, igniting a fascination of rail transportation.  While he graduated from Salem State with a degree in Biology, his love of transportation led him into a lifelong career first as a charter bus driver, making several cross-country trips, to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), beginning as a bus driver and moving into light rail operator, motorman instructor, and MBTA policeman. After retirement from the "T", he worked at Logan Airport as a shuttle bus driver.  In 2002, he had the opportunity to volunteer as a bus driver for the Salt Lake City Olympics, an experience he thoroughly enjoyed. Brian later drove a bus for Pathfinder High School, loving interacting with the students who nicknamed him "Mario" for his everpresent moustache.  In his retirement he found time to participate in the Amherst Railway Society and especially enjoyed the annual Train Show.  His deep interest in rail transportation led to numerous railyard side trips around the country and Canada.  No matter where the business of travel took him, he always was quick to find the tracks and the switchyard.He thoroughly enjoyed a 64-year membership in the Barbershop Harmony Society, holding numerous leadership roles at the local, regional and national level, participated in many choruses and quartets, and travelled globally as a highly sought after coach and contest judge. Known as the Short Tenor, Brian made many strong friendships throughout the years and the memories created many a loved reminisces.  He truly embodied the Barbershop spirit with his engaging manner and the light in his eye when he sang.  It was written about him, "the man who spreads a little brightness wherever he goes."He was a lifelong member of the Knights of Columbus, where he achieved the 4th degree, and a communicant of St. Francis Church, having served as a Lector and choir member, contributing his voice and spirit. He volunteered as poll worker for the town of Belchertown, enjoying being part of the community.Brian was always quick with a story, and he had many, from his varied travels through life.  He regaled many with tales ranging from his cross country bus trips to his Barbershop shows and contests.  He loved to educate anyone interested in all things Rail related, possessing a wealth of knowledge.  Brian was also quite diligent and thorough when undertaking any endeavor, leaving no stone unturned no matter the time it took to "do it right."  He touched the lives of many with his engaging and personable nature, leaving behind a legacy of love and harmony that will resonate through generations.Visitation will be held on October 5, 2024, from 10:30-11:30 am, followed by a Mass at St. Francis of Assisi at 12 pm. Burial will be held at the family's convenience. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in his memory be made to the Harmony Foundation International by visiting www.harmonyfoundation.org/donate