WILMINGTON — Brian Mannix Scanlon, 72, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 17, in Wilmington, North Carolina, surrounded by the love and warmth he spent his life giving to others. A devoted husband, loving father, faithful friend, and eternal optimist, Brian leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and joy.
Born in San Diego, California, Brian grew up with salt in his hair, sand between his toes, and a stubborn love for being barefoot—so much so that he was once kicked out of a college class for refusing to wear shoes. His free spirit and love for the ocean never left him, and it brought him joy to return to the coast in his later years.
Brian earned his bachelor’s degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and devoted his life to architecture. He was passionate about sustainable design and a pioneer in incorporating new technologies into his field. Among his proudest accomplishments was designing and building the Wilmington home he and his wife, Beth, retired to—a home that catches the sunset on the porch year-round, just the way he envisioned.
He held a green belt in Kung Fu and practiced for many years, finding both discipline and peace in the martial arts. He also volunteered his time as a hospital chaplain for nearly a decade, offering comfort and hope to those facing their hardest days. He had a natural gift for meeting people exactly where they were, lifting spirits with sincerity, wit, and an open heart.
Brian lived for 27 years with liposarcoma cancer, battling it with fierce determination, a smile on his face, and a remarkable ability to find the silver lining in every moment. As he wrote in his final days, “I have done my part in battling this monster, and I dearly hope that you have benefited from my strength (humor and attitude). I have benefitted from all of your support! My present choice is to celebrate my ribbons and go in peace with God.”
Brian is survived by his loving wife, Beth Scanlon; his son, Michael Scanlon; his daughter, Deirdre Scanlon-Rohan, and her husband, Danny; his siblings Deirdre Andrews, Happy Moore (Robert), and John Scanlon (Lisa). He was preceded in death by his brother, Michael Gallin Scanlon, and parents, John Francis Scanlon and Kathleen Trounce Scanlon.
In Brian’s honor, please take a pause to listen to Amy Grant’s “Highland Cathedral” or sip on a glass of Jameson’s whiskey (if you’re so inclined). Instead of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Brian’s memory to the American Cancer Society or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Finally, as Brian often reminded those around him: “Have fun.” He would want us to keep finding joy, keep laughing, and keep loving—until we meet again.
Please leave memories and condolences for Brian’s family here.
