December 2017 – December 2024
Some people don’t just fill a role—they become the heartbeat of a workplace. Brian Donaghy was one of those rare souls. As our Production Manager, he didn’t merely oversee schedules and workflows; he turned our team into a family, united by a shared love for making T-shirts and doing meaningful work.
You could always find Brian in the building—just follow the sound of his unmistakable Jersey accent calling bags “begs,” or track his impressive 18,000+ daily steps as he darted through the facility like a whirlwind. On tough days, you might hear the rhythmic clanging of his water bottle against a desk—a signature stress-relief method that became its own legend. Thankfully, we fixed the stressors and David gifted him with a new water bottle to signify the beginning of a new low-stress era.
Brian was as tough as they come. He wore long sleeves and pants in the height of summer, as if to prove he could take the heat. But under that no-nonsense exterior was a heart of gold, especially when it came to his family. His greatest pride and joy were his daughters, Victoria and Mya, and his beloved grandchildren. For a time, we had the privilege of working alongside Victoria in the Quality/Packaging department. Watching her embody the same commitment to excellence, care, and attention to detail that Brian was known for was truly inspiring.
Brian’s quirks were part of what made him unforgettable. His infamous tuna can lunches (whether we wanted to remember them or not) and his tactical raids on the office "candy salad" were staples of his day. His passions for Notre Dame Football, the Dallas Cowboys, and his work family were equally fierce.
What truly made Brian special wasn’t just his work ethic or his ability to manage chaos—it was the way he made everyone feel part of something bigger. He wasn’t just our Production Manager; he was our friend, mentor, and a proud Irishman who could turn challenges into achievements with sheer determination.
In December 2024, we lost more than a manager—we lost a cornerstone of our community. The building feels quieter without his booming voice and quick wit. But his legacy endures in the systems he built, the people he mentored, and the values he instilled.
To Brian—the man who showed us that work can feel like family when done with heart. We’ll miss your energy, your determination, and yes, even your tuna cans. The “thrill of the hunt” isn’t quite the same without you, but we’ll keep moving forward, just as you taught us to.
Rest easy, Brian. Your shift is done, but your impact lives on in every one of us.
