Brandon Starrett Gwynne

With profound sadness and love, we share the passing of Brandon Starrett Gwynne, who entered eternal rest at the age of 30 in Boston, Massachusetts.

Born in Framingham, Brandon spent his early years in Worcester, Framingham, and Shrewsbury, where his natural curiosity and creativity began to shine. In his twenties, he made Boston his home—a city that reflected his energy, resilience, and determination to build a meaningful life.

Brandon was a brilliant mind and a visionary at heart. His deep passion for technology and 3D animation led him to study Computer Science at the University of Massachusetts Boston, where he pursued his dream of one day creating his own video games. With a remarkable talent for mathematics and design, Brandon could see the world not only as it was—but as it could be. His imagination knew no limits, and his ability to bring digital worlds to life reflected the depth of his thought and creativity.

Outside of his love for technology, Brandon found inspiration in the anime series “One Piece.” Its themes of friendship, perseverance, and purpose resonated deeply with him and mirrored his own life journey. Through challenges and triumphs, Brandon learned to navigate life with courage and faith, always striving to better himself and uplift others.

In recent years, Brandon has become a shining light in the sober community, where he has found strength, healing, and a sense of belonging. As a devoted volunteer at The Phoenix, a recovery-based rock climbing center in Boston, he inspired others through his compassion, humility, and quiet leadership. His commitment to personal growth and to the well-being of others was evident in every meeting he attended, every person he encouraged, and every friendship he nurtured. Those in his recovery circle describe him as genuine, loyal, and kind—a man who lifted others even as he continued his own climb.

Brandon’s journey touched many lives, and his legacy will live on through the love and lessons he shared.

Brandon leaves to cherish his memory: his loving father, Gary Mark Gwynne; his devoted aunt, Laura Hunt; his brothers, Lee Michael Edwards-Gwynne and Gary David Gwynne; his beloved partner, Vandy Briana Bontemps; and dear friends Devin Simard, Martin L. Willis Jr., Shauna Marie Hubert, Callandra “Calli” Leigh DuPonte, and the many members of his sober family who became his extended kin.

Brandon will forever be remembered for his gentle soul, his unwavering kindness, his quick wit, and his ability to find hope in even the hardest moments. He leaves behind a community strengthened by his presence and inspired by his courage.

May his light continue to guide those he loved and those he helped along the way.