Bryan J. Leahey

Rensselaer - Bryan J. Leahey, a lifelong resident and devoted public servant of the City of Rensselaer, passed away suddenly on December 16, 2025, at the age of 69. In September, Bryan relocated to South Carolina to enjoy his retirement, embrace warmer weather, and be closer to some of his family; however, Rensselaer was always home to him. While he dedicated decades of service to his community, his greatest pride and joy were his roles as a loving father and grandfather.

Born in Albany on August 18, 1956, Bryan was the son of the late James D. Leahey and Frances A. Burek. He was a proud graduate of Rensselaer High School, Class of 1974, where he was an active member of the Ramblurr staff and the Grievance Committee, and played both JV and Varsity baseball. While in high school, Bryan worked non-stop at his parents coffee shop, Don And Frans.

Following high school, Bryan built a 30-year career, as an Albany letter carrier, with the United States Postal Service, where he also served as a shop steward, advocating tirelessly for his coworkers. Beyond his professional life, Bryan devoted countless hours to serving the youth of his community. For more than 20 years, he was a familiar and beloved presence announcing Rensselaer High School football games, volunteering with Pop Warner Football, and supporting Little League baseball, always showing up for the children and families of his city.

His dedication did not go unnoticed. In 2002, Bryan received the Rensselaer Award for his years of service. In 2012, he was honored by the City of Albany Recreation Bureau with a plaque recognizing his "Countless Years of Dedicated Service" to the Pop Warner Federation, an honor echoed by the Albany County District Attorney. That same year, he received the prestigious R.J. Manning Award for "Service and Dedication to the Youth of the City."

Bryan's involvement with Little League baseball spanned decades, including more than 15 years as treasurer, as well as coaching roles in both Little League and Senior League. He also served as assistant coach for the Gerald O'Neil American Legion Post baseball team. A passionate advocate for local baseball history, Bryan most recently helped lead efforts to recognize Roger Connor of the Troy Trojans, who hit the first recorded grand slam in 1881 at what is now Riverfront Park in Rensselaer. The initiative resulted in press coverage and the placement of a commemorative monument, another lasting contribution to the city he loved.

In recognition of his extensive volunteerism and service across multiple branches of city government, Bryan was inducted into the Rensselaer Alumni Hall of Fame. He also volunteered with the E.F. Hart Hose Company and the Rensselaer Boys & Girls Club. After the passing of Mayor Dwyer, Bryan was appointed Third Ward Alderperson in 2019, a role he held for several years. Previously, he served on the Board of Commissioners of the Rensselaer Housing Authority for over a decade, including five years as chairperson.

Outside of civic life, Bryan was a devoted sports fan, faithfully cheering for his beloved New York Yankees, the New York Giants, and the Clemson Tigers. Before his rheumatoid arthritis progressed, Bryan loved to golf, bowl and play rec softball with friends.

Above all else, Bryan's greatest happiness came from his family. His love for his children and grandchildren was unmatched. He never missed an opportunity to travel to South Carolina to be part of his grandchildren's lives, attending Little League games, travel softball tournaments, football games, birthday parties, and every milestone in between. He treasured time spent at his son's baseball card shop, which proudly bears his name. If asked, Bryan would often say one of his proudest accomplishments was going on a field trip with each of his grandchildren.

Bryan is survived by his children, Matthew (Dayvoneie) Leahey, Brianne (Christopher) Dominy, and Courtney Leahey; his grandchildren, T'Yanna Leahey, Matasia (Jhonathan) Mendoza, DeMya Leahey, Shayla Leahey, Christopher Dominy, Jr., and Viviana Rodriguez; his great-grandson, Tatum Leahey-Martin; and a great-grandchild expected in March 2026. He is also survived by his siblings, Jeffrey Leahey, Jane Reynolds, Brenda Leahey, and Christopher (Mina) Leahey as well as his former wife and the mother of his children, Laurie C. Leahey, whom he remained friends with to the end.

In addition to his parents, Bryan was predeceased by his brother, James Leahey; his sister-in-law, Karen Leahey; and his niece, Jessica.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Bryan's memory with a donation to Rensselaer Little League or the Rensselaer Boys & Girls Club.

Relatives and friends are invited and may visit with the family on Friday, December 26, 2025, from 4-7pm at the W.J. Lyons, Jr. Funeral Home, 1700 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer.  A funeral Mass will be held the following morning, Saturday, December 27, 2025 at St. John the Evangelist and St. Joseph Church, Herrick Street, Rensselaer at 10am. Interment will immediately follow in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Rensselaer.