Obituary
Guest Book
Sean William Spillane, age 24, died on Monday, July 25, 2016 in Washington, DC. Sean died peacefully in his sleep as a result of an undiagnosed heart anomaly.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, August 2, 2016, at Saint Pius the Tenth Catholic Church with Monsignor Anthony Marcaccio officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery.
Sean was the beloved son of William and Joanne (Nichols) Spillane of Greensboro and brother of Jennifer (Astoria, NY), Katherine and Joseph, both of Greensboro. He was a treasured grandson of Irene Nichols (High Point, NC). Sean was born in San Diego, CA and lived in Durham and Greensboro, NC prior to living in Washington, DC. Sean was a 2010 graduate of Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School in Kernersville and a 2015 Summa Cum Laude graduate of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University with a Bachelor of Architecture degree. At Virginia Tech Sean was a Resident Advisor for two years and received the Caitlin Hammaren Award for Distinguished Service to the Residential Community. He was a member of the American Institute of Architects for Students and the G.E.R.M.A.N. Club, a social/service fraternity unique to Virginia Tech.
Sean was employed as an Architect 2 with the firm of LSM in Washington, DC. He recently had been promoted and has been described as a "rising superstar."
Sean was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Walter and Dorothy Spillane and maternal grandfather, Joseph Nichols. Other than his immediate family, Sean is survived by many loved aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Sean never met a stranger! He cherished his family, friends, fraternity brothers and co-workers. He was kind to everyone, had a beautiful smile and a huge heart that touched the lives of so many who were fortunate enough to know him. We will never forget him. Certainly for his family and friends, the sun has been a little brighter, the rains a little softer and the air a little sweeter for 24 years because of him.
The family will receive friends from 2-4 p.m., Sunday and 7-9 p.m., Monday at Hanes Lineberry North Elm Chapel.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the School of Architecture at Virginia Tech for a scholarship in Sean's memory. Donations are made payable to The Virginia Tech Foundation, Inc. and may be mailed to Virginia Tech University Development (0336), 902 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24061.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
August 16, 2016
laurie Collins
I am so sorry for your loss. Sean was an amazing young man. I enjoyed so much having him in my 4th grade class. He was so kind and giving to everyone. He will surely be missed. I am not surprised that he grew into such a fine young man. So sad that he left this world so soon.
Love to the Spillane family and all Sean's friends,
Laurie Collins (was Ms.Chandler)
August 3, 2016
Romie Family
"God's ways are not our ways..," it sure seems to me that we needed Sean and many more like him on this earth. You will remain in the Romie family prayers, as the suddenness of this truly is a shock. Randal, Kimber, & Lilianna
August 3, 2016
leonardo pedraza
It is with a heavy and grief felt heart that the Pedraza Family is feeling for the Spillane Family in the the loss of their Wonderful Son Sean. Our Sons attended St. Pius X and Bishop McGuinness and remember him as a remarkable young man full of talent, and compassion. May God heal your broken hearts.We in the community feel fortunate to have had his companionship among us. God Bless .
August 3, 2016
Mary Ellen Dougherty
Dear Billy and Joanne,
My heart is filled with shock and sadness. My daughter Meghan is Sean's age, February 8. Words do not come.
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May God bless you and your family and hold you tightly close to Him not only now but all the days ahead of you. If there is anything I can do for you, please reach out to me.
Love, your cousin, Mary Ellen (Dougherty)
August 3, 2016
You are all in my prayers. Sean was such a wonderful person. He will be greatly missed.
Love, Sister JC
August 2, 2016
Kathy Douglass
Dear Bill and Joanne,
I just read Sean's obituary aloud to Sherwood. It was all I could do to get through it. It just shouldn't be. The obituary described a young man any parent would be proud to call their son. We enjoyed viewing the pictures of Sean. Thank you for sharing them and allowing us a glimpse into his life. Such a handsome young man! My heart breaks for the Spillane family. I pray that your faith will sustain you.
Love, Kathy (and Sherwood)
August 2, 2016
Lisa Schalk
Dear Joanne and Bill,
My heart is broken to hear about Sean's passing. He was a remarkable man and will truly be missed. I pray that our Lord will wrap his loving arms around you all and give you strength during the difficult days ahead. My thoughts and prayers will be with you always.
August 2, 2016
Christine Cortese and family
We are so sorry to hear about Sean's passing. His infectious smile and delightful personality was a gift to us all. Wishing you peace and strength.
August 2, 2016
Deb, Bill, Alex, Kas, Thomas Shealy
Dear Joanne, Bill, Jenny, Katie and Joseph,
We are so shocked and saddened to hear of Sean's passing. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. During our years at St. Pius school, we were all deeply touched by the warmth, spunk and beautiful smiles of the Spillane children. We pray the Lord's loving embrace holds and sustains you during this difficult time.
August 1, 2016
Bob, Betty and Janet Herrmann
Dear Joanne, Bill, Jen, Katie, Joseph and Irene.
We were so saddened to hear about Sean's passing. May God embrace you in comfort during this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers always.
August 1, 2016
Sister Kathy
Dear Joseph and the entire Spillane family, I am so sorry to hear about the sudden loss of your brother (and son)Sean. Be assured of my personal prayers and the prayers of all the folks here at Our Lady of Mercy Parish.
August 1, 2016
Jeff Folk
Dear Bill,
I just wanted to say I have been thinking about you and praying for you during this difficult time.
Jeff Folk
August 1, 2016
Huncle Joe
Sean's Portfolio:
https://issuu.com/sean_spillane/docs/spillane_portfolio_spring_2015_issu
Sean's blog about Mendrisio:
https://michiamosean.wordpress.com/
LDRS Profile. Be sure to check out the "Facilitation Experiences" tab:
https://scholar.vt.edu/osp-presentation-tool/viewPresentation.osp?id=010A9C8B98D717B87693DFA06B7E2BAD
It was my pleasure and privilege to be Sean's uncle. A beautiful boy, a beautiful man.
July 31, 2016
Don Milner
God bless your family. Sean was a true gentleman, I'm blessed to have gotten to meet him while visiting my daughter at VT.
Thoughts and prayers to your family.
Don Milner
July 31, 2016
Mark & Angie Bidwell
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
July 31, 2016
Shannon Dahlstedt
Your family is in our hearts and prayers. We're so sorry for the loss of your beloved Sean.
July 31, 2016
Mary Ann Lang
Dear Joanne, Bill, Aunt Irene, Jen, Katie, and Joseph,
I was so shocked and saddened when I heard about Sean's death. Though I did not have the opportunity to spend much time with him I have heard all those wonderful things about Sean. From reading about his accomplishments over these short 24 years and looking at all the pictures with family and friends you will have important memories to hold in your heart forever. His wonderful smile will always be there for you too!
My deepest sympathy goes out to all or you. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
May Sean's bright star shine over you always.
Love,
Mary Ann
July 31, 2016
Dear Spillane family, we were saddened to hear of Sean"s death. We have had you all in our prayers since hearing of your loss. We will continue to pray for you all and if there is anyway we can be of help please let us know. Our deepest sympathy,Al and Mary Colanero
July 31, 2016
Gina and Sam Alem
Words cannot express the shock and extreme grief our family felt when we heard the news of Sean's passing. He is remembered in our family as a bright and kind soul who always wanted the best for everyone. We will remember his beautiful smile, energy and spirit and pray for peace and strength for your family. ❤
Sam, Gina, Sophia and Leila Alem
July 31, 2016
Mark and Jackie Campanella
Bill, Joanne and family we are so sorry for your loss. We want you to know we are thinking of you. Sean was a wonderful young man and we are glad we got to meet him.
July 31, 2016
David Seidel
Sean was one of finest people it was my honor to have known. I never saw him when he was not full of positive energy and looking toward the future. Sean lit up every room he walked into. He is a credit to his family and his community. We are all better people for having known him. He will be missed.
July 31, 2016
Nina Okletey
All my sympathy and love to Sean's family and friends.
I've got the chance to share beautiful moments of life with Sean. I'll always keep in my heart how kind, generous, funny and simple he was to me and everyone.
I'll keep sending you all my love in those difficult moments.
July 31, 2016
Paul Lafavore MD
Bill-I want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you travel through this difficult period. I'm very sorry I cannot attend these services in person but if I can help in any way, please reach out.
July 30, 2016
Chip and Margaret Nicolson
We had the pleasure of meeting Sean a few times here in the DC area and he was truly a delight. He came to our home with his great friend Christine and we felt like we had known him for years. He will be missed by all who had the chance to know him.
July 30, 2016
July 30, 2016
July 30, 2016
July 30, 2016
Cousin Gerri
Sean was a fun-filled, happy little boy with a contagious smile, bright mind, and a giving nature. As he grew, he was nurtured by the love, support, guidance, and example set by Joanne and Bill. While he became an extraordinary young man, he was always just a "regular guy"; a good-natured, humble guy with tremendous accomplishments and potential, filled with love, faith, and kindness, and a zest for life. Sean will always be an inspiration and gift to our family.
July 30, 2016
Suja and Jay Ganji
Dear Joanne, I was so heartbroken to hear the loss of your beautiful baby boy. Please know that I am keeping you in my prayers.
July 30, 2016
David & Cindy Westmorelasnd
We were shocked to hear of this very tragic, unexpected loss. Your family will be in our prayers.
July 30, 2016
The Hofer Family
Watching Sean grow up with that amazing contagious smile is just a reminder of the love you have centered your family in. It is hard for those he left behind, but we all know that Sean is with his Heavenly Father and you completed what you were entrusted to do by God. Thank you for sharing his life with us, he will never be forgotten.
July 30, 2016
Tony Hayes
My condolences to the Spillane family who have meant to much to so many people at St. Pius X. I hope the love and high regard everyone has for Sean can bring you some comfort as you weather this profound loss. Prayers and peace to you all.
July 30, 2016
Chana Ball
Our love and prayers are with you. What a tragic loss for all of us. Our deepest sympathy to all of you.
Much love,
Chana, Katie and John
July 30, 2016
Priscilla Manaois-Copley
Our deepest condolences to the Spillane family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers in this most difficult time. Sean was a beautiful, caring and kind individual. He will be missed.
With warm sympathies,
Priscilla, Marissa and Maribelle
July 30, 2016
Joan Lucas
I cannot begin to imagine your pain and sorrow at the loss of Sean. My condolences to all of you. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
July 30, 2016
Mehdi Setareh
Sean was a student in my Building Structures class. He was a very intelligent individual and one of the best students I have had. The news of him passing away was a shock! My heart goes out to his family!
July 29, 2016
Phyllis Tierney
Joanne & Bill, sending you my heartfelt prayers! I was in Greensboro last Sunday! I will put your family on the prayer board at our Motherhouse. Lovingly,
Sister Phyllis
July 29, 2016
Ben & Alice Yorks
Ben and I feel Heartfelt sadness for Joanne and Bill and family. Our words are going to do little to relieve your pain, but please know we are praying for God to embrace you with his love and comfort.
July 29, 2016
Greg Rachal
Joanne and Bill no words can express the hurt Maureen and I feel for you, know that all of you are in our thoughts and prayers and we are here if you need us. May Gods Blessings be with you and your family.
July 29, 2016
The Thompson Family
Upon meeting Sean you knew instantly what a warm, sincere and faithful young man he was. We mourn his passing along with you and will keep your family in our prayers.
With our deepest condolences-
Greg and Sharen
July 29, 2016
Brendan Conrey
My heart goes out to the Spillane family. When I heard of his passing I was filled with sorrow but I also felt something else; something much greater than sadness. Something that will last much longer than grief.
His death has certainly been a reminder of how precious life is but its the zeal that he brought to each day that is the great reminder; he knew that he shared the beautiful gift of life we all share. His work ethic was inspiring from afar and his love of laughter and friendship was something to behold up close. I wish I could thank Sean for the way he lived a wonderfully, bright life.
July 29, 2016
Shannon Lopez
My thoughts and prayers are with the Spillane Family during this trying and sad time.
July 29, 2016
Lin, Roge, Amanda & Josh Cheney
Joanne, Bill, Jenny, Kate and Joseph, we are in shock! We are heartbroken for you.
The world has lost a bright, shining star. If you need anything done, family picked up at airport, food, an ear to listen or a shoulder, we are here. I want to respect your grief and will not call you for a little while. We love you all and hold you in our thoughts and prayer.
July 29, 2016
Bill & Sherry Noble
My deepest sympathies to the Spillane Family. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Sean touched the many lives of the people he came in contact with. His smile was contagious and he will be remembered by so many. May the may memories you have of Sean be the fondest treasures that you hold close to your heart.
July 29, 2016
frank kenney
my heart goes out to the Spillane family. Sean was a great young man and a pleasure to be around, when he walked into a room he owned it, Our family always enjoyed the times we spent together. We will all miss him.
Love
Uncle Frank
July 29, 2016
Micki Sharpe-BMHS Drama
Dear Spillane Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Sean was one of those students that you remember with a smile & never forget. His warm & loving spirit was his gift to so many. My prayers are for your peace.
July 29, 2016
Scottie Rumley
No words can lighten your agony, but please accept my deepest condolences on the loss of Sean. You are in your St. Pius X family thoughts and prayers.
July 29, 2016
Sue Tanahey
My heart hurts for all of Sean's family and friends. He was a beautiful person who graced so many with his kindness love, friendship and service. I will remember him always with fondness. I am praying for all the Spillane family, and the many communities he has touched throughout his life.
July 29, 2016
Ana & Michael Agud
We are just heartbroken from this news. Sean was a wonderful soul with an engaging smile and always a warm hug for us whenever we saw him since the days of Bishop McGuinness to the last time we saw him at Virginia Tech. Our hearts go out to the Spillane family and to his friends for your loss. May you find comfort in your memories and the love you shared with him. God Bless you.
July 29, 2016
Mary D'Altrui
Dear Joanne, Bill, Jenny, Katie and Joseph,
Sean's kind soul, giving spirit and radiant smile had a profound impact on so many and he will never be forgotten. May your cherished memories of Sean, the love of family and your faith in God surround you and give you strength in the days ahead. Praying for you all.
Love, Mary, Gene, Victoria and Elizabeth D'Altrui
July 29, 2016
Mariann Welliver
Heartbroken for the Spillane family. May you feel God's comfort through the love and prayers of all those who love you.
July 29, 2016
This sad news touches so many of us associated with VT and the German Club. My son Cullen, who followed my tenure with the GC, was VP Membership when Sean was a prospective, and has remembered Sean fondly. Good friends are hard to come by, and even harder to lose.
Crenshaw Reed, Class of '78, former Exec Director German Club Alumni Foundation
July 29, 2016
Roydera, Amechi, Azuka, & Adaeze Chukwudebe
To The Spillane Family: From the entire Chukwudebe Family, we are praying for you and your family during this difficult time of loss. May God Bless You.
July 29, 2016
Jonatan Anders
I was exchange student at Tech and I sat next to him im studio for one year. Sean was a great person, very kind, helpful. I am glad that I had the chance to meet him. I want to express my deepest sympathy and condolences for the Family.
July 29, 2016
Benedict Esche
My condulences to the family. It was an honor to meet a wonderful and talented young man like Sean. I remember him
as a man, who was always there for everyone and always had an good advice or open ear. He was a good friend and he still is. - Whenever I think back, he still makes me smile. May he rest in peace. My prayers to all of you. Stay strong.
July 28, 2016
The Ealley family
Sean was such a bright light. The world was certainly a better place with him in it. We are so deeply sorry for your loss.
All our love and prayers,
Mary, Mike, Bridget, Jay and Meghan Ealley
July 28, 2016
Catherine Flannery
Years ago, a friend asked me if I knew a kid named Sean Spillane. Some kids had rolled her front yard with toilet paper. On the following rainy Sunday as she and her husband cleaned the yard, a boy they didn't know pulled over and offered to help them. His name was Sean Spillane. Joanne and Bill, I wanted you to know.
July 28, 2016
Kristi Beeler
Words can't express how saddened we are to hear of Sean's passing. He was an incredible person that always put a smile on everyone's face!
Please accept our deepest condolences - Our prayers are with you!
❤ Kristi, Pete, Halle, and Brooks Beeler
July 28, 2016
Jeanine Lazusky
My deepest sympathies to the Spillane family. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so blessed to have known Sean. His smile, kindness and his big hugs will never be forgotten.
July 28, 2016
Sherry Sutton
I am so very sorry for your great loss. Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers. I pray God will hold you close and give you peace and comfort Love to all.
July 28, 2016
Marianne Anderson
Dearest Spillane Family...We are praying for peace and comfort for you and your family! Sean is such a lovely person and will be missed terribly! We are so sorry for your loss.
Marianne Anderson & family
July 28, 2016
Sharon Rothweiler
It is with a heavy heart that I express my condolences to the Spillane family. Sean was such a wonderful young man. He will surely be missed by all who knew him. You are in my prayers.
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