Brendan Joseph "Bj" Carew

Brendan Joseph Carew, lovingly known as BJ, passed away on May 11, 2025. He was the beloved son of the late Philomena and Joseph Carew, and was preceded in death by his devoted wife of over forty years, Deborah Sue Carew, who passed earlier this year on January 11, 2025.
BJ touched the lives of many through his lifelong dedication to service, family, and community. A proud veteran of the Vietnam War, he served over 20 years in the United States Navy, retiring with honor as a Chief Warrant Officer. After his military service, he continued to give back as a committed volunteer with the Plaza Volunteer Rescue Squad, where his calm presence and capable hands brought comfort to many. He was even known to have delivered many babies during his time with the squad.
BJ was also a long-time supporter and active leader in the Boy Scouts, where he shared his love of the outdoors, camping, and mentoring with countless young scouts. His guidance and leadership left a lasting impact on the lives he touched.
In retirement, BJ continued to serve in quieter ways, working as a school bus driver for the Virginia Beach School System-bringing a friendly face and a steady hand to students each day. He was a proud member of the Aragona Moose Lodge #1198 and a member of Moose Legion 199, where he enjoyed fellowship and community service.
BJ and his beloved Debbie shared a passion for the outdoors. They spent many happy years traveling in their mobile camper, enjoying each other's company and the open road. He also cherished his Friday Night Fish Fry during Lent and was a faithful member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church.
BJ is survived by his children, Travis and Ashley Carew, grandchildren, Serina and Trent Carew. He is also survived by his sister, Jane Carew, brothers, Shane Carew and Greg Carew (Mary), and extended family including brothers-in-law Vincent Weimer (Janice), Harry Weimer (Leslie), and David Weimer (Debbie); and sisters-in-law Becky Hall, Sharon Roper, Jane Summerlin (Steve), Claudette Moffett (Bill), Mary Witcher (Allen), Anna Boyd (Bob), Paula Talley (Dave), and Patty Barnhardt. BJ was preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Margaret Davenport, and brothers-in-law E.C. Barnhardt IV, Jimmy Hall, and Rom Roper.
BJ will be remembered for his generosity, leadership, and deep love for his family and community. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 6-8 p.m. at Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Kempsville Chapel. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11a.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church. It will be preceded by a visitation at the church at 10 a.m. Friday.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in BJ's memory to the Virginia Beach Plaza Volunteer Rescue Squad or the Boy Scouts of America.