Donald Lawrence Cahill

Donald Lawrence “Don” Cahill, 82, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, passed away on September 27, 2025. Born on May 29, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York, Don led a life marked by strength, service, and an unmistakable presence that filled every room he entered.

The son of the late George and Mary Fox Cahill, Don grew up surrounded by a large and loving family. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Frances Cahill, as well as his siblings George, Thomas, and Claudia, and is survived by his children Bridget Cahill McDonald and Patrick Cahill; his sisters Rosemary Cahill Harrington and Kathy Cahill Fornale; and his beloved granddaughter, Nora Rose, whose birth was one of his proudest moments.

In 1965, Don married Barbara, beginning a partnership defined by devotion and adventure that spanned decades. A proud veteran of the Marine Corps and a Purple Heart recipient, Don’s courage and commitment to service continued long after his military years. He served with honor in the Prince William County Police Department, later contributing to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.

Don was known for his larger-than-life personality, commanding respect and admiration wherever he went. Family and friends recall how he always took his place at the head of the table, spinning vivid stories that entertained and inspired. He was a loyal member of his Catholic parish and participated actively in organizations such as the Fraternal Order of Police, the Army Navy Club, the 116 Club, and the Fredericksburg Country Club.

A wake will be held Thursday, October 9th, from 6–8 p.m. at Mullins & Thompson Funeral Service, Fredericksburg. A Catholic Funeral Mass will follow on Friday, October 10th, from 9–10 a.m. at the Marine Memorial Chapel, Quantico, with burial at Quantico National Cemetery and a reception afterward at 113 Hunt Lane, Fredericksburg.

Don’s legacy of courage, humor, and heart will continue to live on in all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Donald Cahill Memorial Fund. The Memorial Fund supports the dream of a future high school, where generations of students can grow in both heart and mind at The Brompton Community School.

https://bromptoncommunityschool.factsmgtadmin.com/give/