Profile photo of Bryan Hughes Adcock

Bryan Hughes Adcock

MarMarch 8th, 1978 AprApril 19th, 2026
Ballwin, MO
Bryan Hughes Adcock

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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May 11, 2026
One night in 2001 or 2 on the road with DSO, Bryan Adcock was running the lights...we were in Des Moines, Iowa or somewhere out there in the middle like that, staying in an ‘historic’ hotel. The elevator was kinda sketchy being a hundred years old or whatever...idk what happened when we got to our floor but his glasses fell off his head and in a slow motion replay bounced off the floor, folded into the closed position, and fell perfectly between the crack of the elevator door and into the abyss. We went to the front desk for help and they said we’d have to wait for the maintenance man to let us into the elevator shaft in the morning. We had a lot of memorable experiences over the years but this is the one I always think of. An impossible circumstance. We did recover those glasses...Love you, brother. RIP

Pete Cornacchione
Pete Cornacchione
May 11, 2026
In addition to Bryan adopting Gunner, I have a memory of him helping set up Rock the Forest - a fund raiser for Rebuilding Together St. Louis. Bryan was there to help with set up. He was so determined to help and so dedicated to doing his part to bring Leslie's vision to life. And, of course, all with a huge smile!

- Priscilla Visintine
Priscilla Visintine
May 11, 2026
Bryan, our beloved lighting designer from 1999 to 2017, was super talented and always a joy to be around. We're sending our love and wish his family the very best.

- DSO

Dark Star Orchestra
May 11, 2026
Bryan... man, where do I even start.
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
Jon Courtney
May 11, 2026
Crazy thing is I knew his dad Shelly for at least 10 years before I met Bryan. When I met him I had no idea or did he that I had been friends with his dad for along time! Small world all the way! When I finally was told his last name I was like...Ok are you related to Shelly? What a cool moment to find out he was my friends son! Bryan and I were going to go on a float trip on the upper Current river. We both drove and he brought a canoe. We camped at Montauk State Park and planned to trout fish the day before the float. Well long story short I taught him how to trout fish. When the next day came around he wanted to fish more than float and that worked for me! We had a great 3 days of him learning how to trout fish and the canoe never got wet! I also had great fun with Bryan working with him for big Jakes Leg shows. He was a very talented lights engineer that worked many years around the globe with Dark Star Orchestra! He always remembered where he came from and it was a joy to work with him at home! RIP my friend! The world was a way better place with you in it!

- Doc
Doc
May 11, 2026
The summer before Bryan and Shannon got married, he told me we had to get a round of golf in before the wedding so that I could give him my official blessing before marrying my best friend. I said you don’t need my blessing and he said it was necessary. I told him he already had my blessing but still want to play golf. We played Forest Park and that was the only time I ever got to play golf with him. We not only had a great round but also enjoyed a solid 19th hole on the hill. And honestly couldn’t have picked a better husband - for my best friend.

- Stephanie
Stephanie
May 11, 2026
In September 1994 I hosted a group of a dozen business colleagues at Sugar Tree for a few days of mixed work and play. It was on a Sunday & Monday, so we had the place to ourselves.

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
Billy
May 11, 2026
My fondest memories of Bryan are on the River at Sugar Tree.However one year on Halloween back in Los Angeles Bryan was my first shill at the world famous Manhattan Beach pumpkin races. This was an event where participants would turn a Pumpkin into a vehicle by adding axels and wheels. Basically turning a pumpkin into a Halloween version of a Pinewood Derby. In order to win the race, I cheated by adding rocket engines to the Pumpkin that could be ignited by remote control if I was losing. Bryan was in the crowd with the igniter and on my command he pushed the button, the rocket engines blasted off and we zoomed to victory, only to be disqualified. The legend of the Cheater Pumpkin began.
Beez
May 11, 2026
A moment I’ll never forget is when Bryan, out of nowhere, came with Gunner and a huge smile on his face to visit my brother the day before he passed. The few times I was around Bryan I would mention to him that visit gave my brother full closure. I will miss telling him and seeing Bryan’s huge infectious smile!
Greg V.
Greg Visintine
May 11, 2026
My favorite Bryan memory is when we were all in Orlando, and DSO happened to be playing that weekend. Bryan was running the lights which was fun to watch, and he even got us backstage to meet the band and in fact we ended up on the side stage while the band was playing. Towards the end of the night Bryan had to guard the set list that also contained the date and place of the original Dead show from his dad. That was also fun to watch! He was such a great guy, he will be missed.

Joe Symborski
Joe Symborski
May 11, 2026
I have such fond memories of Bryan! I will always remember his kindness to me and Gregg, as well as his interest in what was happening in our lives. He will be missed!

Linda Meyer
Linda Meyer
May 11, 2026
Never have I ever seen someone and obviously, his good friend share so much fun and enthusiasm at a StL Cardinal baseball game than sitting two rows behind Bryan at the new Busch Stadium. He first caught my attention just by being tall and once I saw his face, knew immediately he was Shelly and Leslie’s. If memory serves me correctly, it was the final game of the 2006 series, what a game!! Throughout the years following as I got to know him better and see him on the “patio” or at a “show”Bryan and I reminisced about that game. Throughout the years, Brian continued to the man I am blessed to call Friend. I was fortunate to share milestone and occasions with his amazing Shannon, kids and expanded family. Rest in peace sweet Bryan. Memories of you will not fade away.

- Kay
Kay Goding
May 11, 2026
I have had the good fortune of knowing the Adcock family for many years now! And I count them as ‘dear friends’. Of course, Bryan is, and always has been, a ‘part of the Pack’. A privilege it is to have seen Bryan grow and evolve into a young Man. At dinner parties and family~social gatherings I always took distinct pleasure in witnessing, and marveling in, Bryan’s capacity to live with ‘full intention and intensity’. It was as if he made every moment count! Hence, I would describe him as ‘impeccable in his Spirit’. It seemed as though he attended to everything in his Life with utmost care! I will miss his ready smile, quick sense of humor, and the gracious, cosmic light he so generously shared with the World! (Which, by the way, is a wonderful reflection of what his father Shelly(and Leslie) inculcated in him. My deepest love and prayers to the Adcock Family..and all who were lucky enough to have known Bryan!

Tino Trova
Tino Trova
May 11, 2026
Bryan is one of my oldest friends. We met in kindergarten. It’s hard to keep to just one story. I can recall pick-up basketball games in the neighborhood. Sneaking our first beers when his parents were out of town at his house when we were in 8th grade. Playing golf together. He was so damn funny. Quick witted and clever were both so natural for him. There were a handful of times when our paths would cross in random cities because we both were traveling & I would have the privilege of free tickets to the Dark Star Orchestra. It was impossible to be around Bryan and not be smiling. I will miss him dearly. Until we meet again, my friend. Much Love.

With Gratitude,
Michael Wellington
Michael Wellington
May 11, 2026
The Costigan’s Court

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
John Schoemehl
May 11, 2026
We didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Bryan closely, but it was clear he left a meaningful impression on those around him. When we met Bryan, it was immediately evident that he was friendly, kind, and easy to talk to—someone who made others feel comfortable and welcome. It is also clear that he loved, and was deeply loved by his family.

Love,
Becca, Garrett and Benjamin
Becca, Garrett and Benjamin
May 11, 2026
We first met Bryan when he and Shannon attended the rehearsal dinner and wedding for Erin and Jeff in Durango, CO. Bryan was warm and friendly, and obviously very smitten with Shanon, who was just beaming!!
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
Ann and Marty Skoglund
May 11, 2026
I first met Bryan 10 years ago at my niece’s wedding in Durango. I stayed in a house with Chuck, Sandy, he and Shannon. I have always loved Shannon and very much looked forward to meeting Bryan! It was easy to see why Shannon fell for him! He was easy to love! He fit in like a glove with his easy going way and he felt like family right away. We went outside on the porch and chatted for hours! Bryan seemed to enjoy life and was up for anything fun, including a wine trip with lots of our family! It is a memory I treasure, and Bryan will be surely be missed!

Love,
Aunt Lor
Aunt Lor
May 11, 2026
The times we got together with Bryan and Shannon were always welcoming and too few. One was always greeted with and enduring smile and genuine hospitality. Bryan will be sorely missed. Sending this with love and affection,

Uncle Tom and Aunt MaryBeth
Uncle Tom and Aunt MaryBeth
May 11, 2026
Being ‘out of towners,’ unfortunately, we weren’t always able to spend a lot of time with Bryan and Shannon, but when we did, it was a pleasure being with him. We enjoyed catching up, and when we were with him, he always made us feel welcome. Bryan always had a smile and always had one or all of his children close by. You could see he enjoyed being with them, as much as they loved being with him. His love for Shannon and his children was so evident. He showed his love for family in everything he did. Bryan truly was one of the ‘good ones.’

With love, Carole and Rich Schwarzen
Carole and Rich Schwarzen
May 11, 2026
We first met Bryan at the rehearsal dinner before our wedding and enjoyed how quickly we were able to feel the warmth he exuded into our conversation. It made us eager to see him again in future family events, in which we were lucky to get to know him a bit better each time, and see him become a wonderful father. We only wish there’d been more.
Love,
Jeff and Erin Norgard
Jeff and Eric Norgard
May 11, 2026
In every situation Bryan encountered, he made it better! Shortly after Bryan and Shannon started dating, Shannon brought him to a family wedding in Durango, Colorado. They stayed in our condo so we got to know Bryan quickly. We knew, even then, that he was ‘The One’. Two years later they walked down the aisle. Eight years later there was a new family of five living in their beautiful home in Ballwin, Missouri. Whether at a St. Louis Cardinals ballgame, a family wine trip or a backyard BarBQ, Bryan was a delight to be there.
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
Chuck Sullivan
May 11, 2026
Bryan was an amazing person and will be so missed. This picture was taken the night before Bryan was admitted to Northwestern Hospital. Bryan and Shannon were celebrating Johnny and Josephine’s 2nd birthday a week early. Bryan remained incredibly positive, steady, and full of determination, focused on the hope of recovery and returning to the life he loved with his family. It was an honor to have witnessed this time and the strength, love, and grace that surrounded him so fully.

Shawn & Beth Sullivan
Shawn & Beth Sullivan
May 11, 2026
Bryan - My #1 favorite son in law, hands down! Shannon picked the perfect man for her and we could not have agreed more with her choice. Kind, funny, loving, smart, devoted and 100 more descriptive words that would fill the book. Bryan never left my house without telling me he loved me and giving me a squeeze and a kiss. He loved Shannon, Charlie, Johnny and Josephine with a passion that could not be contained. Sharing precious moments together whether at their home or ours, at the Fox, in Italy, in Florida, Cunetto’s or St. Patrick’s Day or Christmas, it was always the same. Bryan made every event better with him there. My heart is broken with his loss, but I can promise I will be there for Shannon and their babies as long as I live.

- Sandy
Sandy Sullivan
May 11, 2026
Cortona, Italy — June 10, 2025
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.

Matt Sullivan
May 11, 2026
We were so grateful that Bryan and Shannon were there to share in our wedding day last September— it meant so much to have them with us. We were announced into the reception and “You Make My Dreams” started playing.
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
Lauren and Cody Caley
May 11, 2026
Bryan was truly one of a kind. We are so lucky to have known him, it was truly a blessing to have been around him. He was patient, kind, and one of the most caring people I have ever known. His laugh is infectious and would light up a whole room. He was the life of the party and always made sure everyone around him was having a great time. Life will not be the same without him. We are so lucky that he brought Shannon into our lives, as well as their beautiful children, Charlie, Josephine, and Johnny. We love you forever, Bryan

Chloe, Brian, Mariette, and Veda
Chloe, Brian, Mariette, and Veda
May 11, 2026
There are no words to describe the pain it feels to lose someone in your life like Bryan. He was a constant source of love, kindness, and positivity. Being in his presence, you felt his warmth and happiness. His number one priority his whole life was taking care of his family and making sure everyone he loved felt seen and cared for by him.

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
Mariette
May 11, 2026
Bryan was always more than just a cousin to me, he was my best man - the person I wanted by my side on the biggest day. We always had a close bond growing up and he was certainly someone I always admired for his fierce dedication to family. I can’t even remember how many times (on Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc.) that Bryan would show up and tell me the craziest flight schedule he just endured just to have a drink and a meal with us.

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
Shelly
May 11, 2026
Bryan... where do I even begin.
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
Erin
May 11, 2026
Bryan was one heck of a human being. He was always upbeat, happy and kind. He always valued family the very most. When he met Shannon, everything fell into place. She was the missing piece to the Bryan puzzle. Then came Charlie, Johnny, and Josephine. He was beyond thrilled to be a dad. I am so happy he got what he always wanted even if only for a short time. God Bless Bryan and his beautiful family. Always in my heart.
– Aunt Michelle
Aunt Michelle
May 11, 2026
What I remember about Bryan, and I am not so sure why, was when we vacationed in South Carolina with the entire Family. I think he was something like 2 or maybe 3 years old at that time. He was such a good-looking kid, and he pretty much got all the attention on the trip. Whatever he wanted, he got. Especially from me. I was his Uncle. My first nephew and he was going to get whatever he wanted from me. At his age, he was not speaking words clearly. But the one thing he could say clearly was UNCLE JOE. Every time he said Uncle Joe, I melted. He would say, Uncle Joe, can I have a cookie. I would get him 3 cookies. He knew how to push my button to say the least. I kind of think that’s where he first got his taste in being a great salesman. He knew how to sell me and others with his way. I was so happy to have him as my nephew. As time went by, after Michelle and I had our own four children, I considered Bryan as my second son. But more importantly, as my son, Shelly’s, big brother. A brother that he could relate to. He became such a great cousin to my three girls and son. He has left a huge impression with all of us. I always felt that Bryan had a full life. Awfully short, but full. As Bryan grew up, out of high school, he decided to travel with a band called Dark Star Orchestra, and became their lighting director. He traveled the world with them. Places that most people don’t see in a lifetime. He was happy and doing what he wanted to do. But there was something missing. Then came his love of his life, Shannon. I think that’s when he found what he really wanted in life, a Family. He married Shannon and have three wonderful Children. That’s when I saw how truly happy he was. A full life, but way too short.
I will miss you buddy forever.
UNCLE JOE
Uncle Joe
May 11, 2026
As Bryan’s Aunt DiDi and proud Godmother, I was given a special role in his life from the very beginning. Godparents are asked to help guide their godchild in faith, love, and how to walk through life with God. But the truth is, Bryan taught me far more than I could have ever taught him.
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.
Aunt Didi
May 11, 2026
I will always remember his kindness, maturity beyond his years. He was such a responsible man with a plan. And, goals. A good businessman, who thought about the future. What he wanted to accomplish. And, he did. For his family, first.

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
Carol
May 11, 2026
Bryan, you are the best of the best. I will hold you in my heart forever
- Mom
Mom
May 11, 2026
I feel so incredibly blessed to have had him in my life. Standing by his side as the Best Man at his wedding remains one of the most honored moments of my life. Witnessing the love he had for Shannon and the beautiful family they built was a privilege I will always cherish.

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
Justin
May 11, 2026
There are too many wonderful memories, adventures, and celebrating just plain everyday life with Bryan to mention them all - but this moment will always remain my most proud - Leslie
Leslie
May 11, 2026
The trip that changed our relationship forever

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.
Jennifer (younger sister)
May 11, 2026
I took this photo back in 2016 when I visited Bryan & Shannon in their new found love - Erika
Erika O' Connell
May 11, 2026
I took this picture late August 2025. I’d known this family for about 5 years at this point, and I’ve loved getting to know them and their growing family. I don’t have a specific memory to share necessarily, just lots of happy memories seeing them grow into a joyous and happy family in their new home as it came together and the kids were growing up. Bryan has always been an amazing father, and I have always admired his positive outlook on life. He has always been willing to help me with anything, offering to come look at my new house when I bought it and all the advice a single girl could ask for. He was a pillar of this family and I feel so lucky that I was ever made to feel a part of it, always feeling included by him even as just a nanny/babysitter. He was a good friend and a great listener, and I loved chatting to him about everything from work to my relationship issues, to the silly things the babies and Charlie had gotten up to that. I miss him so much, and I hope he has been reunited with Gunner and is waiting for all of us. - Paige
Paige
May 11, 2026
Telluride/Mesa Verde Trip with Bryan and Shannon

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
Liz Bertrand

Family tree

Shannon Sullivan
Shannon Sullivan
Bryan Adcock
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