Brian K. James, 65, of Beaver, passed away on January 16th, 2026, at Heritage Valley Sewickley Hospital, surrounded by his loving family, listening to the music he loved. He was born in Easton, Pennsylvania on February 29th, 1960, a son of the late Ruth Jean (Coyle) James and Howard James. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brother-in-law, Jack Emery. He is survived by his wife of some 35 years, Susan (Webb) James, daughters, Alina and Sabrina James, his brothers: “Mike” (Patricia), Patrick (Renee), Thomas (Amy) and Greg (Debbie); as well as his sister, Barbara Emery, his mother and father-in-law, Ruthann (Jack)  Webb, his sisters and brothers-in-law, Wendy (Joe) Hammel and Cathy (Kurt) Lane; as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and many friends.

Brian was a husband, father, musician, artist and athlete. He was the kind of guy you meet and 12 minutes later, he’ll make you feel like an old friend. The Phillies, The Cowboys, Talking Heads, and Springsteen: his passion for his favorites was endless and enthusiastic. Oh, and he was hilarious. Completely hilarious and could have you laughing like crazy, often at his own expense. He was a graduate of Phillipsburg Catholic High School and Moravian University (class of 1983), Brian knew the secret of making friends; and keeping friends. The best guys; the funniest friends with the craziest stories….the kind you can have only with lifelong friends. He was the first person to support you in every way; to respond to your ideas with a smile and an enthusiastic exclamation like “That’s tremendous!”

Family meant everything to Brian and although his illness posed many significant challenges,  his resolve was formidable, and he made it his goal to be at as many family events as possible, especially over the past few years. His beautiful daughters, Alina and Sabrina, were the jewels of his life, and he supported their many activities and took so much pride in their accomplishments. His wife Susan was his strongest, most loving advocate, and they built a life together for some 35 years. Even as they faced Brian’s health challenges together, they shared a partnership filled with love.

Friends will be received on Monday, January 19th from 3 P.M. until the time of services at 7 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made in Brian’s name to the National Kidney Foundation, support.kidney.org.