David Britt Obituary
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A devoted husband, Dave is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Maureen (Reenie) O'Malley Britt, who was his steadfast companion in all of life's travels and trials. His memory is cherished by his siblings: Stephen J. Britt (Denise), Eileen Britt Milnes (Peter), Karen Britt Weiss, Deborah Britt Lightkep (Paul), Anita Britt Keough (Brian), and in-laws, Deborah Brown Britt, John O'Malley (Marie) and Karen O'Malley. Survived by many loving nieces and nephews. Dave was predeceased by his parents, Benjamin T. and Kathryn Britt, and his brothers Mark J. Britt and Christopher P. Britt, and brother-in-law George W. Weiss. Each family member carries a piece of Dave's legacy in their hearts.
Dave's educational journey was impressive and diverse, beginning with his graduation from Bishop McDevitt High School in 1967. He went on to earn a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of New Mexico in 1977, followed by an MS in Management from the Naval Postgraduate School in 1983, and an MA in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College in 1997.
His illustrious career in the U.S. Navy began with his enlistment in 1967, serving in the Submarine Service aboard the NR-1. Dave's leadership qualities shone brightly, and he was commissioned as an Officer in 1977, later serving in the Surface Navy. He commanded the USS Kauffman FFG59 and the USS Vicksburg CG69 with distinction, earning the Bronze Star Medal in 2002 for his bravery and dedication to his country. Dave retired as a Captain in 2003, leaving behind a legacy of honor and respect within the military community.
After his naval career, Dave continued to impact the world through his work at Raytheon Corporation as a Program Manager until his retirement in 2013. His work ethic and leadership skills were as evident in the corporate world as they had been in the Navy.
A man of faith, Dave lived his Catholic principles through his actions, treating everyone he met with kindness and respect. His interests were as varied as his talents; he was an avid golfer, pickleball enthusiast, and lover of all things athletic. World travel with his beloved Reenie provided him with joy and countless stories to share. Dave was also a skilled handyman, a music aficionado, and cherished dining with friends. He found solace and pleasure in relaxing on the beach, letting the rhythms of the waves match the calm and steady beat of his heart.
Dave's loving, courageous, and friendly nature made him a beacon of light in the lives of his family and friends. His absence will be deeply felt, but the memories he created will continue to inspire and comfort those who were fortunate enough to have known him.
In his passing, Dave leaves behind a legacy of love, courage, and friendship. His life was a testament to the power of dedication, both to one's country and to one's loved ones. David F. Britt will be remembered not just for the titles he held or the accolades he received, but for the warmth and generosity he extended to everyone he encountered. His story is one of triumph, tenderness, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
A memorial Mass will be held at 9:30 AM on Monday October 20, 2025, at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 2850 75th St W, Bradenton, FL 34209. Inurnment will take place at 12:30 PM at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in honor of David's name to Alzheimer's Association 225 N Michigan Ave. Floor 17, Floor 17 Chicago, IL 60601, https://www.alz.org.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Stephen Hampton
October 27, 2025
Somewhere Terrie and I have a photo album of a very special ship, the USS Thomas S. Gates, and the people that made her so. I could not locate that album, but I had this picture of the Wardroom Officers on the aft missile deck of that ship during Desert Storm (from the cruise book). Dave Britt is in the front center with Captain Giffin, surrounded by the officers he led as the Executive Officer. He and Captain Giffin ensured everyone in that ship knew that what they did was important, and critical to combat readiness. Everyone was working hard -- and it was not convenient to put on Service Dress Blues and go to the missile deck that day. But the story is that Dave knew we should, so he made it fun, and in less than 10 seconds we were all back there laughing and making fun of each other. And feeling like those were the best friends in world, in the best place. They were. Dave made it feel that way. He made us dig deeper to help each other, and to have fun doing it. Everyone is smiling because Dave, in perfect sync with our Captain, made it so, and knew that the picture would be important because it connected us. Brilliant. He did that with Reenie everywhere he served, and went on to make the ships he commanded -- USS Kaufman and USS Vicksburg -- the best they could be, and where people gave their best and felt important doing it. We will miss you Dave, and smile whenever thinking of you.
Mark Konetski
October 18, 2025
Renee, I am so very sorry for your loss. I just now learned of Dave´s passing. He was a very good friend to me when I first joined the crew of Thomas S. Gates, as the Supply Officer, just before Saddam started the first Gulf War. He saw me through some very challenging times. Both Sally and I sincerely enjoyed our friendship with you and Dave. Cherished memories. I´ve often thought about how you both were doing after the Navy. May God bless his soul and continue to bless you as well. Mark Konetski, CDR, SC, USN (Ret)
Douglas Bauer
October 13, 2025
I was working at Raytheon as a govt rep when Dave came on board. He was a great guy whom I much admired. I think all at Raytheon will remember him for his booming voice which got a lot of smiles from folks. RIP Dave!
Doug "Pete" Bauer
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Robert Warner
September 28, 2025
Marilyn, my wife, and I met Dave and Renee over fifty years ago at UNM while we were both enlisted Sailors. We have fond memories of playing charades and dancing into the wee hours of the morning along with several other couples. If you know Dave at all, you know he was highly competitive, he hated to lose. We would play racket ball, singles and doubles, for hours until Dave would emerge the winner. He was also quite talkative. Affectionately, we would say Dave could talk to a brick and get the brick to talk back. While we never served together, we followed each other´s careers over the years. I was more than honored to have Dave as my guest speaker at my retirement. Dave was my friend and I will miss him deeply. My God bless and keep him.
Mark Scovill
September 3, 2025
I served with CAPT Britt in Seoul. In addition to doing terrific job leading our support to the ROK Navy he created a strong sense of community within the Navy family on the peninsula, and as I progressed in my career I soon learned I had gained a lifelong cheerleader and mentor!
Sinclair Harris
August 27, 2025
CAPT Britt was my instructor in Department Head School. His passion, competence, drive and sincere love of the Navy was evident in every lecture. He inspired me and many others to have a love for our Surface Navy. He will be sorely missed. My most sincere condolences to the family. RADM Sinclair Harris, USN Retired Surface Warrior
Arch Macy
August 27, 2025
We have truly lost a legend, a mentor to many, and a shipmate in every sense of the word! Fair Winds, Following Seas, and Safe Home - where he is now.
Michael Franken
August 26, 2025
I have no idea how we met, because I think he was always 'there.' The 'few years older and 'bout a decade smarter' naval officer, Dave Britt. We were Little Neck area quasi-neighbors. I knew him as a sports guy, debater, knows how things work type-a-guy, and someone beloved by everyone. A happy person. People liked to be around him. Combined with Reenie, a hugely potent duo for Norfolk's navy.
And I didn't know he wasn't well...so sorry, Dave, my friend.
Pat and Debbie Cassidy
August 26, 2025
Debbie and I are truly saddened to hear of Dave´s passing. We will always remember the great times we had in Newport years ago, sitting on the bench drinking adult beverages enjoying the sunset over the Bay and solving the world´s problems.
Fair winds and following seas, shipmate.
Pat Cassidy
MICHAEL E McDEVITT, CDR USN
August 26, 2025
I met Dave at OCS in Newport in 1976. We were next door neighbors on Green Lane and worked closely as SWOS DH instructors in 87-89. I taught the "threat" and he shot it down! Fond memories of our three families, (Britt, Cassidy, McDevitt) daily sitting out on the park benches in the community front yard; children running amok and climbing the tree as the grown-ups relaxed, talked and enjoying the sunset over Narragansett Bay. Lifetime Friends and Family. Uncle Dave and Aunt Reenie. Miss you, old friend! Love to Reenie.
Bryan McGrath
August 26, 2025
Dave Britt taught me a lot about being a grown-up, being a loving partner, and being a proficient naval officer. His energy was as infectious as it was limitless. Love and strength to you, Reenie.
Bryan McGrath
August 26, 2025
Dave Britt taught me a great deal about being a grown man, being a loving partner, and being a proficient naval officer. His energy was infectious and limitless, and I was a better XO for having watched him in that role. Love and strength to you, dear Reenie.
Pete Morford
August 26, 2025
Dave was one of our Department Head instructors at SWOS teaching us about Aegis. I loved his enthusiasm and energy and remember him well. RIP, Sir.
Michael Bustillo
August 25, 2025
I worked with Dave at Raytheon for many years. He treated all of us with respect and had an infectious laugh and sense of humor. I enjoyed working with him very much. My best memory of him was leading employees on a tour of a US Navy ship in Mayport, FL and playing cards on the back of the bus driving back to St. Petersburg, FL.
OS2 Timothy McCoy
August 25, 2025
We stood a many CIC watches together.
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