ROCKLAND — Brian Hughes McAuliffe, 73, passed away on May 1, 2026, at Maine Medical Center following a brief illness. Brian was born in Camden, in 1952, the son of John and Helen (Hughes) McAuliffe. He graduated from Rockland District High School in 1971. Upon graduation, he attended St. Frances College in Biddeford, Maine, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology in 1978. He worked as a social worker for the State of Maine’s Child Protection Services for 36 years. After retirement, he worked at the McLean Borden Cottage for two years.

His generosity, wit, and sense of humor made Brian a great friend to all who knew him. His love of cars was a constant in his life. Brian and Joe enjoyed attending auctions and finding the perfect piece of furniture or undiscovered treasure for their home. He loved animals and his adopted kitties became the ultimate pampered pets.

Brian was predeceased by his parents, Helen and John McAuliffe.

He is survived by his partner, Joseph Sheehan, of Rockland. Also surviving are two brothers, Deacon John McAuliffe of South Portland, Kevin McAuliffe, M.D. (Sandra, D.M.D.) of Ponte Verde Beach, Florida; two sisters, Kathleen Noonan (Tim) of Scarborough, Patricia McAuliffe of Camden, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial service for Brian will be held Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 10 a.m., at Burpee Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland. Following the service, a gathering of friends and family will take place at the Owl’s Head Transportation Museum, 117 Museum Street, Owls Head, ME.

The family wishes to thank the doctors and entire staff at Maine Medical Center’s intensive care unit for their kind and compassionate care.

To honor Brian’s memory, a contribution may be made to the Pope Memorial Animal Shelter, P.O .Bo 1294, Rockland, ME 04841.

To share a memory or condolence with Brian’s family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.