It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Brandon Clay Román, 38, a brilliant and dedicated young lawyer, who was taken from us far too soon. Brandon died unexpectedly December 27, 2023, in Washington, DC. He was born November 20, 1985, in Fredericksburg, VA. Brandon is survived by his parents José Rafael Román and Joyce Cash Román of Fredericksburg, VA, sisters Marita Jean Martiney (Jaime) of Lawrenceville, NJ and Marissa Román Griffith (Peter) of Los Angeles, CA, and brothers Joseph Michael Román (Cari) of Marietta, GA and Andre Román of San Diego, CA. Brandon created a family of friends during his life, too many to capture in words, all treasured by Brandon.

Brandon was a member of the Chancellor High School Class of 2004. He graduated from Brigham Young University (BYU) in 2009 after completing a 2-year mission. Following college, Brandon attended American University where he graduated with top honors (Cum Laude) in 2013 after earning both an MA in International Affairs and his JD. Brandon pursued a career in law with determination and fervor. He quickly made a name for himself within the legal community and at Squire Patton Boggs as a formidable advocate for those in need. Known for his exceptional legal acumen, empathy, and tireless work ethic, Brandon became a beacon of hope for many who sought justice in an often unforgiving world. He became a Partner at the young age of 36 while actively volunteering with the Hispanic Bar Association of DC, National LGBT Bar Association, and Lambda Law Society.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Brandon will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, beaming smile and infectious sense of humor. His presence illuminated every room he entered, and his impact on the lives of those around them was immeasurable. Brandon possessed an uncanny ability to uplift others and make the world a better place through his actions.

Though Brandon's time with us was tragically brief, the indelible mark he left on the world at large will endure as a testament to his extraordinary spirit and unwavering dedication to doing the right thing.

While we grieve the absence of Brandon's physical presence, his memory will live on in the countless lives he touched and the causes he championed.

In honor of Brandon's remarkable legacy, a memorial service will be held at 12 pm Saturday, January 6, 2024 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 1710 Bragg Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22407.

Those who wish to remember Brandon in a special way may send flowers to Laurel Hill Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 10127 Plank Rd Spotsylvania, VA 22553 or donate to a cause close to Brandon's heart, Lamda Law or Supporting and Mentoring Youth Advocates and Leaders (SMYAL).

Though our hearts ache with the pain of Brandon's absence, we find solace in the knowledge that his spirit will continue to guide and inspire us in the pursuit of a more just and compassionate world. Rest in peace, dear Brandon. You will be deeply missed, but your light will shine on forever in our hearts.