Obituary of Devon Jonathan O'Grady

Son. Brother. Life Partner. Friend. Teammate. Devon Jonathan O’Grady led his life with love and kindness, until his sudden passing on May 6, 2024. Devon is held deeply in the hearts of many, most of all his beloved fiancée Laura Murphy, their two incredibly special pups Leni and Chewy, mother Sarah (Randy Hodder), father David (Jeff Butt), grandmothers Granny and Lulu, and his biggest fan, sister Kathleen (Jenna Mandville). He was a loyal and devoted member of many families, and was joyfully embraced by Laura’s family, especially her father George (Lana Duggan), mother Sammy, sister Tamara, and brother Josh. Devo had long earned the status of Brother by not only his dear cousins, but his four MacDonald brothers, and his countless friends. He is cherished by his aunts, uncles, grandparents and all members of the O’Grady, Murphy, Walsh, Capps, Miller, MacDonald and Noseworthy families. He was honoured to be ‘Uncle Deevs’ to a ragtag collection of nieces and nephews, who will carry on his fun and silly spirit forever.

Devon’s legacy is far-reaching and everlasting. He is most well known for putting a smile on your face as soon as he entered a room, with a compliment, a joke, or a bold, discussion-worthy statement. He was always curious about everybody, thoughtful, and so generous with his time - shown through his lifetime of volunteering. Devo was everybody’s biggest fan, hype-man, and the go-to guy for any task or adventure. He is the ultimate sportsman, known to be the most spirited player for the many teams he was a part of as a student athlete, all the way to his dedicated coaching life in St. John’s as well as St. Catharines. He has a massive presence in the basketball and tennis communities and was an avid and disciplined runner. Of course, Devon’s legal career was just beginning, but he was already becoming a respected lawyer, and an impactful presence at his current firm Poole Althouse, where he brightened everyone’s spirits from the first moment he walked in the door.

Devon and Laura were best friends and had a full life planned together. They had a beautiful love that was apparent every time you saw them. They were inseparable and supported one another in their personal and professional aspirations. Devon’s family expressed how Laura made him the happiest he had ever been. Individually, Devon and Laura were incredible, but together, they were spectacular.

Devo would want us all to live life fully and enthusiastically in his name, using the strength of our families and communities for support to get through challenges together as a team. In lieu of flowers, donations to a charity serving your local community are welcomed. 

Join us as we honour Devon’s beautiful life on May 19th from 2-5pm at Admirals Green in Pippy Park.