Brian Daniel Driscoll, 56, of Melrose, formerly of Somerville, passed away peacefully at home on August 22, 2026, after a lengthy illness, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply.

 Born on August 27, 1969, in Somerville, Massachusetts, Brian was the beloved son of Paul Driscoll and Marie (Ciulla) Driscoll. A 1987 graduate of Somerville High Trade School, Brian trained as a skilled cabinetmaker before beginning what would become a remarkable 32-year career with The Home Depot, working on the MET team. Over those many years, his coworkers became family, and Brian treasured the friendships he made along the way.

 In 1995, Brian married Erika Capodilupo of Somerville. Together, they settled in Melrose, where they spent the next 31 years building a life, a home and, most importantly, a family. Their three children were the center of Brian’s world: Molly Driscoll of Woburn and her partner, Chris Blake; Kevin Driscoll and his wife, Allison Driscoll, of Lowell; and Dylan Driscoll of Melrose. 

Being a father was one of the greatest joys of Brian’s life. He was completely devoted to his children and loved being involved in whatever they were doing. He coached the boys in Little League baseball, recreational basketball and soccer, and was always willing to take his kids wherever they needed—or wanted—to go. More than anything, Brian simply loved being part of their lives. Their happiness was his happiness. 

Brian was also the family’s resident “Mr. Fix-It.” Over the years, he could be counted on to help with just about anything, whether it was painting walls, tiling a bathroom or tackling whatever project needed to be done. His wife affectionately referred to his ever-growing collection of tools as his “gadgets,” although Brian would surely have disagreed. He owned enough drills and power tools to outfit the entire neighborhood—and was always willing to put them to good use for someone who needed his help. 

Brian knew how to enjoy the simple things in life. Some of his happiest memories were made on family vacations to Walt Disney World and during summers spent together in Ogunquit and on Cape Cod. He loved his Jeep and the freedom of driving with the top off and the open air around him.

 A lifelong Boston sports fan, Brian faithfully cheered on the Celtics, Red Sox, Patriots and Bruins and looked forward to the beginning of each new season. Music was another constant in his life, especially The Beatles, Badfinger and Bob Dylan, and you could often find him listening to the songs he loved. 

And then there were the little rituals that were simply Brian: his morning iced coffee, his daily Wordle and Connections, and the daily competition he and Molly shared over their scores. 

The four-legged members of the family held a special place in Brian’s heart as well. He was a loving dog dad to Sadie and a proud “Papa” to Frannie and Vinny, whom he loved immensely. 

For ten years, Brian faced cancer with extraordinary strength and determination. He rarely allowed others to see the struggles he endured and never wanted his illness to define him or burden those around him. Brian would never have chosen to leave his family and friends. The disease was relentless, but so was Brian’s determination to stay. Those closest to him will forever be in awe of the strength and determination he showed in staying for as long as he possibly could. 

Brian is also survived by his brother, Paul Driscoll and his wife, Linda, of Stoneham; his sister, Karen Carozza and her husband, Gene, of Melrose; his beloved in-laws, Nancy and Ralph Capodilupo of Somerville, who loved him as their own son; his brother-in-law, Brian Capodilupo and his wife, Kerri, of Melrose; his uncle, Frank Ciulla; his cousin, Kerri Carbone and her husband, Michael, of Somerville; and his beloved nieces and nephews, Ashley, Kaitlyn, Michael, Leah and Brian. 

Brian was the cherished grandson of the late Acurzia and Vincenzo Ciulla a.k.a “Lucy and Jimmy” and Antonia and Henry Driscoll. He was also predeceased by his aunt, Cathy Vergato; his uncle, Henry Driscoll; and Henry’s wife, Linda Driscoll. 

Brian was not fancy or complicated. His needs were simple. He found happiness in the people and things he loved and always tried to see the good in life. Perhaps Brian’s outlook could best be summed up in the words of one of his favorite songs from Monty Python: “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.” 

And anyone who knows the song can probably hear the whistle that comes next.

 Brian’s greatest legacy will always be the family he loved so completely.

Visiting hours will be held at the Gately Funeral Home 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, from 4:00-7:00PM, followed by a prayer service at 7:00PM. Relatives & friends respectfully invited to attend. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Brian's memory to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284.