Jack Brennan

Born on August 27, 1936, and raised on Staten Island, Jack was the son of a generation that valued hard work, loyalty, family, and faith. He attended Port Richmond High School, where he met the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Bette Dellavalle. They shared an extraordinary 67 years together before Bette's passing in 2022, building a family rooted in love, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

A gifted athlete, Jack distinguished himself as a talented left-handed pitcher during his high school years. Pitching for Port Richmond High School and the Staten Island Chiefs, he earned the nickname "Southpaw Speedballer." His remarkable ability on the mound earned him a tryout with the New York Yankees and a place in the Milwaukee Braves farm system at just 19 years old - an accomplishment that reflected both his natural talent and dedication to the game, and one he always remembered with great pride.

Although life ultimately took him in a different direction professionally, baseball remained one of his greatest passions. Whether it was the Cubs, Mets, or Brewers, Jack never missed a televised game. His impressive collection of baseball caps reflected whichever teams were playing that day - unless, of course, one of his favorites was on the field. His love of sports extended beyond baseball, as he could almost always be found wearing a Michigan or Notre Dame shirt or hat, proudly supporting the teams he adored.

Jack proudly served his country in the United States Army before receiving an honorable discharge. He remained a steadfast supporter of American veterans throughout his life, particularly through the American Legion.

He devoted his career to New York State, where he worked faithfully until his retirement.

Outside of sports, Jack found great joy at the Saratoga Race Course, making annual trips to enjoy the excitement and tradition of horse racing. His son, John, also shared that passion with him, often taking him to Monmouth Park Racetrack for memorable days together.

Music filled his life as well. He was a devoted fan of classic country music and the Bee Gees, with Kenny Rogers, Merle Haggard, and Conway Twitty among his favorite artists.

Jack possessed a wonderful sense of humor, effortless charm, and a personality that drew people to him. He had an uncanny ability to make people laugh and was genuinely loved by everyone who knew him.

Jack was also famous for one piece of advice he never failed to give his grandson, Rocco: "Don't take any wooden nickels." It was a phrase that perfectly captured his humor, wisdom, and love.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Bette Brennan; his daughter, Donna Burtner; his son, Michael Brennan; and his son-in-law, Brian Burtner.

He is lovingly survived by his son, John Brennan and his wife, Christine; his daughters, Anita Quattrocchi and her husband, Joseph, and Cristina DeAngelo and her husband, Gerard; his daughter-in-law, Young Brennan; his nine grandchildren, John, Kate, Melissa, Gina, Nicole, Dominick, Alexa, Kenny, and Rocco; and his thirteen cherished great-grandchildren, Brianna, Alyssa, John, Emily, Mia, Luca, Lia, Valentina, Bianca, Thomas, Peyton, Dominick, and Charles.

Jack lived a full and remarkable life - one marked by love, laughter, baseball, horse racing, music, and unwavering devotion to his family. His quick wit, infectious smile, and larger-than-life personality leave behind countless treasured memories that will continue to bring joy to all who knew him.

His family finds comfort knowing that he is reunited with the love of his life, Bette, and those who went before him. His legacy will live on through the family he cherished and the countless lives he touched with his kindness, humor, and generous spirit.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of his family and friends.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Casey Funeral Home, 350 Slosson Avenue, Staten Island, New York. A funeral service will immediately follow from 11:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.

Interment will follow at Moravian Cemetery, 2205 Richmond Road, Staten Island, New York.

A Committal Service will take place at Moravian Cemetery, 2205 Richmond Rd, New York, NY 10306, US, on July 2, 2026, from 11:45 am to 12:00 pm.

"Dad, Over the past four years, since my mom passed away, Dad and I found our way into a new kind of relationship. What began with me stepping in as his caretaker slowly grew into something I will treasure forever — he became my best friend. Our days together were filled with laughter, easy conversation, and the kind of humor that could turn an ordinary afternoon into something hysterical. I will miss those daily moments more than words can say — his jokes, his stories, the comfort of just being near him. Dad, I woke up this morning feeling overwhelmed and lost without you. Thank you for letting me care for you, and for giving me the gift of knowing you not just as my father, but as my friend." A Message from His Daughter, Cristina DeAngelo.