My personal creativity project.

by Maureen Townsend

In the past four months, I have lost two of the best people I have ever known. My brother-in-law John (45) in June and my brother-in-law Joe (44) in October. 

This means that my husband has lost two brothers, and my son has lost two uncles, and I now have eight nieces and nephews without a dad. I could go on and on but thinking about the magnitude of these losses overwhelms me. 

I first met John & Joe in the 90's when we were all still in school, they were our neighbors on Barnett Street for a short time. Eventually we became family. They were so good to me; they were my friends, and I loved them both. Still do. 

I am going to share some links to tributes, but first let me share the GoFundMe we set up to help Joe's children, Santana (9) and Maya (5). 

Fundraiser by Mark Townsend: Townsend Family Fund 

The family is working to make sure they are taken care of now, and in the future. People have been so generous. Seriously, some of the donations that have come through have moved me to tears. Thank you.  

In addition, John's family runs the best plumbing company in Prince William County. Support them too: Prince William Plumbing | Trusted Plumbers - Nokesville VA.

John Townsend Obituary

Joe Townsend Obituary

Facebook tribute to John

Facebook tribute to Joe

These two episodes of Sadly Lacking Radio are a lesson in grief and sibling loss. Mark & Jonathan do a great job paying tribute to both men: 

Sadly Lacking Radio & Sadly Lacking Radio. 

Listening to these episodes requires a $29.99 yearly subscription, which is worth it. I am not just saying that because I am the wife and audio engineer of one of the hosts. It is. 

Mark & his brother Charlie both spoke at each funeral. How they did it, I have no idea. You see, these were not your normal brothers who live far away and see each other at holidays. 

This was as tight a foursome as I have ever known. In a lot of ways, I feel like they all helped raise each other's children, too. An absolute team of brothers. 

Speaking so beautifully, each time in front of a packed room of people; I will never forget it. You can read Mark's below. I will update this with Charlie's soon. I just need to bother him to get copies. 

Thank you for taking some time to read about John and Joe. And join me in talking about them, and remembering them, well, forever. Because I will. 

Eulogy for John Townsend

Read by Mark Townsend

7.1.2024 Baker Post Funeral Home

Manassas, VA

----

Family & friends, thank you for being here. I am Mark Townsend, John’s older brother. 

I am here to remember a remarkable man whose presence in our lives was nothing short of extraordinary. 

John was more than a brother; he was a force of nature, who lived life to its fullest and touched the hearts of all who knew him.

From the very beginning, John exemplified courage and authenticity. 

As a child, he fearlessly led the way, always eager to embrace every moment with zest and joy. Whether racing down gravel roads or cannonballing into pools, John approached life with an infectious spirit that drew people to him. His charisma and inclusivity forged friendships that endured through the decades, a testament to his loyalty. 

John was a dreamer with a rare gift: he had the ability to turn dreams into reality. His adventurous spirit took the two of us across the country on a spontaneous road trip, reminding me to seize opportunities and savor the journey. 

He lived by the mantra of action, urging others not to overthink but to make things happen—a philosophy that defined his vibrant existence.

In Susie, John found not only a loving wife but a true partner who grounded him and amplified his strengths. Their love was evident every time I was around them; it was a marriage built on mutual respect and admiration that set an inspiring example for all who knew them.

As a father, John's devotion knew no limits. He cherished each of his six children as unique individuals, investing his time and energy into their passions and milestones. His unwavering presence at games, competitions, and everyday moments spoke volumes of his commitment and love.

He enriched the Nokesville community as a businessman, coach and neighbor. His generosity truly amazed me.

Beyond his larger-than-life personality, John possessed a deep wisdom and compassion that touched lives in profound ways. 

His laughter was infectious, and his storytelling captivated all who gathered around him.

John was the best man in our wedding, a great friend to my wife, and he was a supportive and loving uncle to my own son. John, Susie and their children are part of the reason I think Jack is the “least only” only child you could ever meet. 

All three of us will miss John dearly; he was a constant source of love for our family and that cannot be replaced. 

We love you Susie, Alex, Nathan, Abby, Theo, Luke and Caroline; and will always be right here to support you. 

John, you were not just my brother but my hero. 

Rest in peace, I love you. 

Eulogy for Joseph Townsend

Read by Mark Townsend

10.25.2024 Baker Post Funeral Home

Manassas, VA

Today, we’re here to celebrate my brother Joe, an unforgettable man and a free spirit. Joe was authentic and vibrant, even as a kid. 

Some of my best childhood memories are of swimming and fishing at Lake Manassas with my three brothers. Joe loved the outdoors, showed a respect for nature and always cared about the world around him.

He was always comfortable in his own skin, with a charm and smile that drew people in. In school, he excelled effortlessly. I was always a bit envious of how he attracted friends and, let’s be honest, girls without even trying. He was genuine and had a knack for finding good people, regardless of their backgrounds. He had this incredible ability to connect with everyone.

Joe loved to travel and experience the beauty of the world, and one of his favorite spots was Costa Rica. There, he met Laura, the woman he’d marry. I’ll always cherish their outdoor wedding on the Eastern Shore of Virginia—a hidden gem Joe discovered and shared with us.

Eventually, he decided to forge his own path and moved to Northern California to start his own business. The courage it took to take that leap was inspiring. I was always so proud of how he and Laura gave their son Santana and daughter Maya the most beautiful place to call home as young children. 

Life certainly threw us a curveball when Joe was diagnosed with brain cancer. But through the surgeries and brutal treatments, he never complained. His strength was inspiring. 

This past summer, I had the chance to work every day with Joe and my son Jack. My favorite land surveying crew of all time. The three of us laughed more than I thought possible, and he was totally himself through and through, even in the face of his struggles. My wife tells me that I never took those days for granted, and she may be right. I think I knew how special it was, and am so grateful for that time. 

After losing our brother John this summer, I noticed a shift in Joe. The light in his eyes faded, and I knew his time was drawing near. Reflecting on his life this past week, I realize Joe was always chasing freedom and a better world for his kids. 

I will always be there for you, Santana and Maya. I hope your lives are a reflection of your dad’s hopes and dreams for you, and that you forge your own path like he did. 

Joe taught me to listen to my heart and to be true to myself. I will love and miss you forever, Joe. I hope you and John are up there side by side, sharing a laugh. Wait for us on the other side of the swinging bridge.