Charles Vincent Brady

Charles Vincent Brady, 86, of Springfield, IL, went to Heaven at 11:04 a.m. on Thursday, September 19, 2013. Charles was born January 11, 1927 in New York City, NY, the son of Joseph Bernard and Sarah McLaughlin Brady. He married Patricia Ann O'Donnell on July 4, 1974 in Danvers, MA. Charles earned his Bachelor's and Master's degrees at Catholic University in Washington, DC. He went on to receive his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Harvard University. Charles began his teaching career at Flaget High School in Louisville, KY. He then assumed the principalship at St. Joseph High School in Baltimore, MD. He later founded a boy's high school in Harlem, NY. He then became a consultant for National Catholic Education Assoc. While at NCEA, he served as a professor at his alma mater, Catholic University. He moved to Springfield as the associate director of the Catholic Conference of Illinois where he lobbied on behalf of private and public school education. Upon retirement, Charles was a volunteer tutor for many years at Sacred Heart-Griffin, Springfield High School and Cathedral Grade School. Charles was a scholar, a mentor, and always a gentleman. He had a wide range of interests and was always on a quest for knowledge. Charles had a twinkling sense of humor and loved to recite the poem Gunga Din. He was a very generous, caring and prayerful man who will be greatly missed. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Joseph and Frank Brady; and a sister, Geraldine Messmer. He is survived by his wife, Pat of Springfield, IL; and nine nieces and nephews. Visitation and Funeral Mass: Family will receive friends from 10:00 until 10:45 a.m. on Monday, September 23, 2013 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1725 South Walnut St., Springfield, IL. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Jeff Grant, celebrant. Additional ceremonies and burial will be held at a later date in Lynn, Massachusetts. Memorial contributions may be made to: Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1725 South Walnut St., Springfield, IL 62704 or Xaverian Brothers, 4407 Frederick Ave., Baltimore, MD 21229. In honor of Charles' memory, please commit some act of kindness.