Tristan Reilly McGillicuddy
May 15, 1996 ~ May 27, 2025
Born in:
Washington, District of Columbia
Resided in:
Falls Church, VA
In Loving Memory of Tristan Reilly McGillicuddy
Our beloved Tristan McGillicuddy passed away on May 27, 2025. Born on May 15, 1996, in Washington D.C., Tristan was a bright and vibrant spirit who moved through life with charm and grace. From an early age, he showed a remarkable capacity for kindness and compassion, and a zest for life that made him a cherished presence in our lives. His smile lit up every room; his energy and love for life were infectious.
A graduate of Bishop O’Connell High School and Washington and Jefferson College, Tristan was always eager to learn, grow, and make a difference. Tristan pursued everything with passion, dedication and integrity. He had a natural ability to connect with others, and his empathy and generosity defined him. He always offered support to those in need and would drop everything for someone he loved.
While his time with us was far too brief, Tristan left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He was a tireless fan of the Washington Capitals and Nationals and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Tristan had a strong sense of adventure, what he called the “adventure gene.” Whether he was snow skiing, water skiing, traveling, sharing time with family or friends, or working with his students, Tristan proceeded with unwavering enthusiasm and passion.
Tristan is survived by his mother Tami, his father Kevin, his brother Connor, his future sister-in-law Mariah, his adopted brothers Rehman and Taimoor, and many friends and extended family members.
We mourn the loss of someone so young and full of promise, but we take comfort in knowing that Tristan lived a life rich with love and joy. He will forever be remembered for his kind heart, bright spirit, and warm presence. He made all of us feel like we were truly seen and valued. His spirit will continue to live on in the stories we share and the memories we hold dear. In his memory, we ask that you honor Tristan by carrying forward the love, kindness, and laughter that he so generously shared with us all.
A memorial service will be held on June 20, 2025 at John Calvin Presbyterian Church, 6531 Columbia Pike, Annandale VA at 12:00 noon and will be followed by a reception at Kilroy’s Restaurant, 5250a Port Royal Road, Springfield VA 22151.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Services
Memorial Service: June 20, 2025 12:00 pm
John Calvin Presbyterian Church
6531 Columbia Pike
Annandale, VA 22003
(703) 256-3644
https://johncalvinpres.org/
View current weather.
Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Tristan Reilly McGillicuddy 's name.
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
I had the privilege of working with Tristan when he was the paraprofessional in my 2nd grade classroom at Mount Daniel Elementary. He was such a gentle giant! The students flocked to him because of his kind and caring demeanor. He was loved and admired by all who knew him.
Wishing you comfort and peace during this difficult time.
My condolences to his family. I pray God give you the strength during the difficult time.
I had the privilege of working with Tristan in the History Department at Falls Church High School. He was such a kind and loving presence, someone who made it a priority to ensure that both students and colleagues felt supported and truly heard. His compassion and care left a lasting impact on our school community, and he will be deeply missed.
To Tristan’s family, I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that he touched many lives and will be remembered with great respect and warmth.
I had the pleasure of working with Tristan in the History Department at Falls Church High School. He was thoughtful, steady, and deeply kind. He was the kind of person who made everyone feel seen and supported. Tristan brought a calm, caring presence that always made things better.
To Tristan’s family, I’m so sorry for your loss. He made a real difference in the lives of both students and colleagues, and his memory will continue to live on in the many hearts he touched.
I was Tristan’s team teacher at Falls Church High School. As a new teacher, we were both learning together. While I learned of Tristan’s passing this morning, I was thinking about him yesterday when a senior stopped by to share how he had seen Mr. Tristan at the local community center and he seemed so happy and “in his element” working with young kids at the community center. I will always remember Tristan’s compassion, patience, and HUGE smile. He could diffuse a difficult situation with his gentle manner; the students knew he cared about them. Please know how very sorry I am for your loss.
Tristan was always so kind, helpful, caring, patient and adaptable. It was a pleasure working with him. Everyone liked and cared about him, everywhere he went. He will be dearly missed.
There are no words to express the depth of feeling one can offer for the loss of a son. Our hearts go out to you and your family as you try to understand. Beverly and I extend you our heartfelt grief and love. We wish you all the best as you try to continue on in your life. Best wishes and all you do Marlene and Beverly.
Tristan was the kind of person who could brighten a room just by walking in. His smile was genuine, his laughter contagious, and his spirit uplifting. He always had a kind word for everyone – whether you were a close friend or someone he just met. His compassion, his warmth, and his unshakable positivity were gifts that he gave freely to all.
Tristan found the good in everything and everyone. He listened with intention, loved without condition, and gave without expectation. Tristan lived with grace and gentleness that reminded us what it meant to be human.
In a world that often feels heavy, Tristan was light – a guiding force, source of hope, and a reminder that goodness still exists. He leaves behind not only memories, but a legacy of kindness, laughter, and love.
Though we continue to mourn deeply, we should also celebrate. We should celebrate the joy Tristan brought, the lives he touched, and the love he shared. Tristan will never be gone from our hearts.
Rest in peace, Tristan. Thank you for being you. We will carry your light with us, always.
-Shelli
I will miss him very much and my thoughts continue to be with his family.
You had a way of making people feel supported, even when they didn’t ask for it always checking in with a gentle, “Are you sure?” just to make sure we felt confident and seen. That small question, asked with care, said so much about who you were someone who truly looked out for others.
Thank you for your warmth, your generosity, and your quiet strength. Your legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone lucky enough to work alongside you. You made a difference, and you will not be forgotten.
With love,
Mrs. Vee