

May the four winds blow you safely home.
Obituary
Bryan Adcock Obituary
Bryan Hughes Adcock, 48, passed away at 11:42 p.m. on April 19, 2026, at Northwestern Hospital in Chicago, Illinois.
Bryan was born on March 8, 1978, in Pompano Beach, Florida.
He lived a life defined by connection, warmth, and an unwavering positivity that impacted everyone around him. Bryan never met a stranger - his infectious laugh, genuine kindness, and magnetic personality made others feel instantly at ease.
He is survived by the love of his life and soulmate, Shannon Sullivan Adcock, and their three beautiful children, Charlie, Johnny, and Josephine, who were the center of his world. Bryan also leaves behind his father, Shelly (Leslie); his mother, (Carolyn MacDonell); his sister, Jennifer; and his brother, Justin (Vandi), along with many extended family members and close friends who will deeply miss him. The family would also like to thank the Courtney family and Helitech for their support throughout the years.
A lifelong St. Louisan, Bryan lived fully and intentionally. He traveled the world, celebrated life's moments both big and small, and had a passion for bringing people together. Whether it was cooking the best steak you've ever tasted, sharing his love of music, or spending a day on the golf course-including a few memorable hole-in-one-moments-of-glory-Bryan created experiences that people will never forget. He was also a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan.
Bryan cherished time spent with family and friends above all else. He touched the soul of everyone fortunate enough to know him. His legacy of love, laughter, and generosity will live on through the many lives he impacted.
In accordance with his wishes, Bryan will be cremated, and his ashes will be spread at his beloved Jacks Fork River.
Memorial service/celebration of life details are pending.
In lieu of flowers, the Adcock family requests donations can be made to support the education funds of Charlie, Johnny and Josephine. www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-bryan-adcocks-legacy-of-love
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Published by St. Louis Post-Dispatch on Apr. 22, 2026.
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Pete Cornacchione
- Priscilla Visintine
- DSO
We met over17 years ago at BB's Jazz & Soup-because apparently nothing says lifelong friendship like being two of the last guys standing at 3 a.m. while everyone else made better life choices. Somewhere between the music, the laughs, and yeah... probably a couple shots of Jameson instead of soup, a brotherhood was built.
Bryan wasn't just a friend-he was my brother, my confidant, my partner in production, and one of the most talented guys I've ever known. He showed me the ropes in concert lighting, but more than that, he showed me how to live in it-with passion, humor, and a presence that made everything better just by him being there.
I'll never forget one time we were on the road, headed to Kansas City for a big show. When we got to the venue, started unloading, and then it hit us-we didn't have a ladder. Which, in our world, is kind of a big problem. Without even hesitating, Bryan just looks up at the truss... and starts climbing. No complaining, no hesitation-just went to work like a crazy man. He's up there hanging, moving lights, calling down to the guys, making sure every par can was exactly where it needed to be. Up and down, over and over again. It honestly made you dizzy just watching him.
That was Bryan-meticulous, locked in, and committed to getting it right no matter what.
And then, after all that... a storm rolls in and shuts the entire event down.
I remember looking at him, thinking he'd be furious after everything he just did. But he just looked at me, kind of smiled, and said, "That's the breaks, man. Welcome to concerts." No anger. No frustration. Just acceptance. That moment stuck with me. It showed me exactly who he was. Bryan taught me that not everything goes according to plan-and that's okay. You roll with it, you adapt, and you keep moving forward.
We shared so many miles, so many shows, so many late nights that turned into early mornings. And through it all, Bryan was steady, loyal, and real-the kind of guy you could always count on.
He had this way of making everything feel lighter, funnier, more alive. And if you knew him, you know exactly what I mean. I'm going to miss him more than words can say. But I'm beyond grateful for every moment, every lesson, every laugh. If I can hear Bryan in heaven saying, right now, cocktails!! Give me two.
Love you, brother. Fare thee Well. Jon Courtney
- Doc
- Stephanie

I thought it would be helpful to have a young lad handy to assist us with picnic set-ups, ice runs, hauling coolers, etc. Bryan was 16 at the time, and he was happy to take on the assignment. Like his father, Bryan was always ready to pitch in and help, and he was just fun to have around. But I think the best part for him was that during our business sessions, he was free to roam the property by himself seemingly without a care in the world.
My buddies commented on how much he seemed to be enjoying himself. Thinking back on it now, it was likely the only time that he was there by himself, with no family or other members around, and no set schedule once he’d gotten our group settled. It makes me happy to imagine a few days of carefree living for a young man whom I will always remember for his big smile and a heart for serving others. What a gem he was!
Love, Billy
Greg V.
Joe Symborski
Linda Meyer
- Kay
Tino Trova
With Gratitude,
Michael Wellington
Bryan and I shared a passion for basketball when we were kids. Just down the street from our houses on Parkland Avenue was a small court behind the Costigan’s place, and for about five years we played there almost every day. That court was our world. We spent countless hours there playing two-on-two, practicing shots, and challenging anyone who was willing to step onto our home court. Over time we developed this incredible chemistry playing together. Without really thinking about it, we always seemed to know where the other one would be on the court.
Bryan had this unbelievable confidence about us as a team. He used to say that on our home court, the two of us could beat anybody. And the funny thing about Bryan was that when he said something like that, you believed it. His confidence had a way of becoming your confidence too. Looking back, it wasn’t just about basketball. It was about the time we spent there, the friendship we were building, and the feeling that when we stepped onto that court together, we could take on the world.
For a lot of years, that little court down the street was where some of the best memories of my childhood with Bryan were made.
Thanks,
John Schoemehl
Love,
Becca, Garrett and Benjamin
We were so happy that Shannon was dating such a nice guy, who was undaunted by having to meet with so many Sullivans at once.....and stuck there the whole weekend! Of course, we were delighted to attend their wedding on September 28, 2018, such a joyful event!! Bryan was such a devoted family man and an enthusiastic participant in many extended family events.
Ann and Marty Skoglund
Love,
Aunt Lor
Uncle Tom and Aunt MaryBeth
With love, Carole and Rich Schwarzen
Love,
Jeff and Erin Norgard

Most of all, I loved the way he cherished Shannon, Charlie, Johnny and Josephine. He will truly be missed by all who had the pleasure to know him.
Chuck Sullivan
Shawn & Beth Sullivan

- Sandy
One of my favorite afternoons of my life took place in June 2025, during our family trip to Tuscany, shortly after Shannon and Bryan arrived at our villa. We found a small, family-run restaurant in Cortona and spent hours doing what Italians do best—drinking great wine, enjoying incredible food, and laughing endlessly together.
As the meal wound down, I turned to my brother Patrick and asked if he’d be willing to leave at 5:00 a.m. the next morning to drive me to the train station so I could catch a train to Rome. He laughed and told me there was no chance—he’d be sleeping until noon. Without a car and with limited options, I started to get a bit anxious about how I’d figure it out.
“Matt, I got you.”
True to his word, Bryan woke up at the crack of dawn the next morning and drove me 25 miles through winding mountain roads to the station. Not only that, he smiled the entire way and said it was a great excuse to spend some quality time together—and to pick up fresh pastries for everyone back at the villa.
That was Bryan. Effortless generosity. Quiet selflessness. He gave his time freely and showed up for the people he cared about without hesitation.
Being able to call Bryan Adcock a friend was one of the great honors and privileges of my life.
Lunch in Cortona — the afternoon that said everything about who Bryan was.

Bryan turning to Shannon and asking if we had somehow chosen their song—the same one they were introduced to at their wedding. For the record, we didn’t steal it. We picked it because it reminded us of a live cover band we saw when we were first dating.
But knowing that it’s a song Bryan and Shannon share too makes it even more special. Bryan always had such a love for live music, and now every time we hear that song, it will forever hold even deeper meaning. It will bring me back not only to the joy of our wedding day, but also to them—their love, their memories, and that beautiful, unexpected connection between us.
We truly love that this is something we share. Bryan was such a wonderful member of our family and he will be missed greatly.
Love, Lauren and Cody Caley
Chloe, Brian, Mariette, and Veda
I will never forget- when I was maybe 5 or 6, Jen, Jenna and I were playing on the playground at the school by Nene’s house and some boys started to throw rocks at us. We ran back to tell Bryan and my brother Shelly, and they immediately ran over and scared them off. When Bryan got back, I remember him smiling and saying “They’re gone.” He was always a protector and safe place for me, and everyone in our family.
I was so happy when Bryan and Shannon fell in love, got married, and had three beautiful babies. He was always meant to be a dad and I am so glad he got to experience the role he was meant for, even if only for a short time. I will miss his smile, his one-of-a-kind laugh, watching him with his babies, watching him carve the ham or turkey on Thanksgiving, listening to his stories, his big warm hugs, and the list goes on and on. It seems impossible to imagine life without Bryan, but I hope to carry on his legacy by living life like he did: filled with love, positivity, and gratitude. I love you Bryan! You are in my heart forever.
– Mariette
Bryan was an adventure and traveling man with his time on DSO, but everyone knew he was destined to come home and have his own family. There were girlfriends along the way, but it wasn’t until he met Shannon that the question shifted from if to when. Bryan would certainly tell you that, across all his many adventures around the world, Shannon and the kids were by far his greatest of all. It is impossible to say today, but we must know that he would never trade the short time he had with them for anything in the world. It is a cliche to say “celebrate the life” and certainly too hard for anyone close to him to do now, but we must all know that he is looking down with extreme gratitude that he had the time he did with the most important thing in the world to him - his family.
Your cousin, Shelly
There are endless childhood memories and so many thoughts that come flooding back when I think about us growing up in the crazy Adcock family. I can still see you leading the kids’ table in “prayer” at holidays — “Rub-a-dub-dub, thanks for the grub... YAY GOD!” I still say it to my kids all these years later.
I remember being in awe of how cool you were when Nene took us all to the beach. I wanted to be just like you (I was 100% a tomboy). I still laugh thinking about us staying in the ocean just a little too long and you helping me remove a jellyfish wrapped around my arm.
Fast forward through the years, and I remember you always being one of the first people to visit me in the hospital after I had a baby. You loved my kids so much. At family parties, you always wanted to hold the babies, feed them, love on them. You had such a genuine love for family, and it showed in everything you did.
I used to think, Bryan is going to make some girl so very happy... I can’t wait for that day. And then came Shannon.
People keep calling her your soulmate — and there has never been a truer description. I remember literally crying tears of joy at your wedding. You found her — your other half. The happiness on your face is something I will never, ever forget.
And then sweet baby Charlie. Are you kidding me... you’re a dad?! I have never seen anything come more naturally to someone. And of course, you two were such naturals that God gave you double trouble next — Josephine and Johnny... angels. Those precious babies, Shannon... your entire world.
It was everything I had envisioned for you for so many years — a dream come true. I have absolutely no idea why that dream was cut short. There must be some greater plan, though I’m not sure I’ll ever fully accept it.
But one thing I know for certain is this: the legacy you have left in Shannon, Charlie, Josephine, and Johnny is unmatched.
I can’t wait to watch them grow and tell them stories about what an incredible human you were. I will always look up to you — always. I love you so much and feel like the luckiest girl in the world to call you family. What an honor.
Please keep an eye on us down here... and feel free to pop in and say hello. We miss you so much already, but we’ll do our best to move forward and live each day in the present, just as you did.
Love you, big cuz... rest easy up there.
- Erin
– Aunt Michelle

I will miss you buddy forever.
UNCLE JOE

He taught me about love through the way he cared for others. He taught me about authenticity by always being truly himself. He taught me about living with intention, making the most of each day and cherishing what mattered most.
One of my favorite memories is traveling with Bryan when he was about 12 or 13 years old. We toured Washington, D.C. and parts of Northern California together. He absorbed everything with such curiosity and enthusiasm. He was bright, thoughtful, and an absolute joy to be around.
Bryan brought warmth, depth, and light wherever he went. I will always be grateful for the gift of being his Aunt DiDi and Godmother, and I will carry his memory in my heart forever.
He was caring. Sensitive. And, a loving husband and father. He lived life to the fullest. While cut way too short, I’m just honored to have known him, loved him, and shared memories with him. Memories I will always cherish. Bill and I loved him. Thought the world of Bryan. I will miss surely miss him.
A poem by Anne Lindgren Davison “I’m Free.”
Don’t grieve for me for now I’m free. I’m following the path God laid for me. I took his hand when I heard him call. I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day. To laugh, to love, to work, or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way. I’ve found that peace at the close of day. If my parting has left a void, then fill it with remembered joy. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss. Ah yes, these things I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow. I wish for you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life’s been full, I’ve savored much. Good friends, good times, my loved one’s touch. If my time seemed all too brief, don’t lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heart, rejoice with me. God wanted me now. He set me free.
I hope this poem will comfort all of you at this most difficult time. I think it’s beautiful. For all of us, who know the loss of a dear, loved one.
- Carol
- Mom
He leaves behind his soulmate, Shannon, and their three amazing children, Charlie, Johnny, and Josephine.
Bryan, you will be deeply missed, but your legacy of love and laughter lives on in all of us. "May the four winds blow you safely home."
He didn't leave me; he just went ahead to get the best seats.
- Justin


A spontaneous river trip the first weekend of January 2006 took us for a serious ride. This trip which had us tumble roll under an entire tree that fell over the water, bonded us like nothing else. It taught me I can trust my brother with my life; that he is strong, courageous, nimble, adventurous, and absolutely hilarious. This was the start of a whole new form of our brother/sister relationship, and for that I am forever grateful. The downside, I wont ever trust anyone in a canoe like I can Bryan.


The first time Michael and I met Bryan was on a road trip through Durango, Telluride, and Mesa Verde National Park. He was instantly charming and kind—I remember thinking right away he was perfect for Shannon. We camped outside Telluride at high altitude, where it got so cold there was frost on our tents in July. Through it all, Bryan stayed focused on Shannon’s comfort, keeping the fire going and making sure she was warm.
Dark Star
When Dark Star came through Denver during Bryan’s touring days, he generously put Michael and me on the guest list a few times. We loved spending time with him over beers before the shows - and then watching his light work bring so much joy to the crowd. - Liz
Liz and Michael's Wedding
Shannon and Bryan’s flight to our wedding was canceled the morning of our welcome party, but Bryan didn’t hesitate - he got them in the car and drove all 13 hours straight. They arrived just in time, ready to celebrate without missing a beat.
- Liz
Family tree


