WILMINGTON — After a courageous two-and-a-half-year battle with cancer, Bryan Whittenton passed away peacefully at home in the early morning hours of January 15, 2026, surrounded by love.
Bryan was born on February 25, 1978, in Smithfield, North Carolina. He was the devoted husband of Kristin Whittenton and a beloved son to Sheila Whittenton. He was preceded in death by Jean and David Whittenton, Sr. He is also survived by the loving Millsaps/Estes/Eckley/Morris crew, who were deeply fortunate to call him family.
Bryan grew up in Dunn, North Carolina, and was a proud UNC Wilmington alumnus. He loved the beach, and many weekends were spent with his wife and dog, Oscar, at one of his favorite places, Figure Eight Island.
Bryan was an integral part of nCino, joining the company in its earliest days as one of its first employees. Over the years, he held several roles, including Solution Architect and Partner Performance Director, leaving a lasting impact through his intelligence, leadership, and unwavering dedication.
An excellent golfer, one of Bryan’s happiest days was attending a Masters round, a memory he treasured deeply. He also had a passion for travel, an amazing steak dinner at a fine dining restaurant, a mudslide on the beach, and any fun adventure, whether taking a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon or swimming with dolphins. Bryan loved keeping up with the news and sharing an endless supply of fascinating and often random facts, earning him the affectionate nickname “Google Bryan”.
At his core, Bryan was a caretaker and a fixer. He took care of not only his mom and wife, but also her siblings and extended family, always putting others first until the very end. He was the most patient and loving husband and provider, a loyal and devoted son and son-in-law, the best dog dad, an incredible brother-in-law and friend, and a treasured uncle to many little ones.
Though cancer ultimately ended Bryan’s life, it never defined him. He faced every diagnosis, treatment, setback, hospitalization, and even his hospice referral with a grace and strength uniquely his own. His courage, kindness, and quiet steadiness will be remembered far beyond his years.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Bryan’s memory to the American Cancer Society or to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare, a nonprofit providing compassionate hospice and supportive care. Your generosity will honor Bryan’s spirit and help support others facing serious illness.
Details about a Celebration of Life will be shared soon.
