Brian Robert Ballantyne

Brian Ballantyne, a man of resilience, humor, and unwavering authenticity, passed away on November 13, 2024, at the age of 59. Born on January 5, 1965, in Durham, North Carolina at Watts Hospital, Brian lived a life full of love, laughter, and steadfast commitment to his family and principles.

Brian was predeceased by his parents, Ann and Bob Ballantyne. He is survived by his sisters, Kerri Bridges, Shelli Wilson, and Robbi Ott; his brothers-in-law, Todd Bridges, Bill Wilson, and Michael Ott; his nephew, Cameron Bridges; and his nieces, Claire Bridges (Jarrod Tunks), Emily Schwark (Steve Schwark), Meg Wilson (Daniel Easterling), Madison McDonald (Matthew McDonald), and Haelli Wiesehan (Jared Wiesehan), as well as his grandnieces Abigail Schwark, Hadley and Parker Wiesehan. His Ballantyne family was his pride and joy, and his love for them was unwavering.

Brian was fiercely proud of his 32 years of sobriety and urged others to always make positive changes for themselves. He lived in many places including Albuquerque, Austin and particularly enjoyed his time in Honolulu, Hawaii. He loved his cats Smokey, Moocow and Atticus. He took exceptional care of them and they both lived well into their teens. Brian was a lover of history and an avid advocate for democratic ideals. He was unapologetically true to himself in everything he did. To those who knew him, Brian’s humor was legendary - a sharp wit that brought light to even the heaviest days. His steadfast and tenacious spirit was equally remarkable, a testament to his determination to overcome challenges and live life on his own terms.

Brian will be remembered by his family and friends for always lending a hand when needed, offering a kind word of encouragement, and caring deeply for the well-being of others. His generosity and compassion left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Ann Hoskins, Brian’s dedicated hospice nurse with Transitions Lifecare, for her compassionate care and unwavering support during the past year and a half.

Kerri and Todd Bridges invite you to join them in celebration of Brian’s extraordinary spirit for a visitation time Nov. 22nd at the Brown Wynne Funeral Home on Maynard Road in Cary, NC from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Burial will be Nov. 24th at 2:00 pm at Sharon Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, NC.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that we honor Brian and his love of animals and caring for others with donations to Transitions LifeCare at transitionslifecare.org/donate or the Raleigh SPCA https://spcawake.org/honor-memorial-gifts/

Brian’s light will continue to shine through the countless lives he touched, a reminder of the beauty in living authentically, loving fiercely, and never losing your sense of humor.

"Brothers may leave this world, but they never truly leave our hearts. The love and memories remain, a bond that time and distance cannot break." Arthur Unknown

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Brown Wynne of Cary is honored to serve the Ballantyne family.