Jane Brennan

Jane Alice Brennan, née Shirmer, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026, at Gilcrest Hospice Care in Howard County, Maryland. Born on March 31, 1929, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Jane’s life was a journey marked by her unwavering commitment to family and community.

Jane’s early years in Cincinnati shaped the compassionate and nurturing woman she became. As the beloved daughter of the late Frank and Alice Shirmer, she carried forward her family’s values with grace. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Edward William Brennan of Windsor Mill, whose partnership was a cornerstone of her life.

For many, Jane was the embodiment of strength and selflessness. After embracing the role of a devoted stay-at-home mom, she embarked on a career spanning over three decades as a Baltimore County school bus driver. 

Her proudest accomplishment, however, was the family she raised. Jane was a mother of six, whose heart was a haven for her children. She was the pillar of support, offering unwavering advice, love, and comfort to all of them. Though two of her children, Terrance Brennan of Clarksville, Maryland, who passed in 2020, and Kimberly Little of Laurel, Delaware, who passed in May 2026, preceded her in death, she is survived by four devoted children: Kevin M. Brennan (Debbie) of Mt. Airy, Maryland; Keith Brennan of Sykesville, Maryland; Kelly Brennan of Windsor Mill, Maryland; and Scott Brennan (Pamela) of Hampstead, Maryland. Her love extended beyond her children to her ten grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and several great-great-grandchildren, a testament to the family she nurtured through generations.

Jane is survived by her brother Thomas Shirmer (Eileen) of Cincinnati, Ohio. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Mary Ellen Young of Cincinnati, Ohio. 

Beyond her family and career, Jane found joy in simple pleasures such as bowling, golf and sewing.  Her artistry and love for tradition came alive during the holidays, when she crafted homemade Christmas and Easter decorations that made these celebrations uniquely memorable for her family and friends.

Jane leaves behind a world made brighter by her presence and a family shaped by her boundless care. In remembering Jane, we honor a mother, sister, and friend whose spirit touched all who were fortunate to know her.

She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered, forever held in the hearts of those she loved and those who loved her in return.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Saint Jude Children's Hospital.  A celebration of life is planned for a date to be determined later.