James "Brian" Young
Passed: December 16, 2025
Charleston, WV
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James "Brian" Young
Passed: December 16, 2025
Charleston, WV
Obituary
James “Brian” Young, 57, of Charleston, WV, passed away from a stroke following a long battle with an autoimmune disorder on December 16, 2025, at Hubbard Hospice House.
Brian was born in Charleston on July 16, 1968, to Jerry and Mary Janet (Kennedy) Young. After graduating from Nitro High School in 1986, Brian went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree in TV/Video Production from West Virginia State University. After several jobs in music and TV production, Brian joined the Information Technology Department at the Charleston Campus of WVU’s Health Science Center where he remained a devoted employee who was beloved by many coworkers, medical professionals, and faculty.
He was preceded in death by this mother.
Brian is survived by his wife, Debra (Hunt) Young; his father, Jerry Young; his children, Cadance and Beatrice Young; brother, Alan Young (Tena); and a multitude of loving nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
At the age of 13, Brian developed a love for the drums that lasted a lifetime. While in school, he played with the school band and, after graduating, he consistently played with many local bands including Mother Nang, Todd Who? Project, and most recently, the New Old Souls. His studio, LiveMix Studio, was a hub for musicians and friends to gather and jam, hang out, and create music together. His local presence as a musician and artist will be remembered by a large community of loving and supportive artists and friends.
Brian believed that all children should have opportunity to learn and love music. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Brian’s memory, to the any Kanawha County School’s Performing Arts Program of your choice.
Brian’s wishes were for his friends and family to gather together and have a “big party” rather than a funeral. We will have a Celebration of Life July 2026 that will be filled with music, laughter, love, and memories of our favorite guy.
Condolences may be sent to his family at www.barlowbonsall.com.
Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
12 responses to James "Brian" Young
Mary Lickert says:
January 5, 2026
I met Brian 20 years ago, for tech help, through Kai Haynes. I’m forever grateful to have known two such wonderful guys.
Brian, the spirit drummer, brought people together & set the tempo w/ a big smile & quick laughs. He was one of a kind! I always felt lifted by his cheer!
He sure enjoyed his family life — I heard lots about you folks. My condolences to you, friends, band mates & co-workers. I think we had a very smart, wise & talented Mr. Fun — I loved him. May we celebrate Brian in a big way come July!
Michael & Sharon from the Tree House says:
December 22, 2025
So sad to hear of Brians passing! He was a great guy to work with on a small project for a class from Mountaineer Montessori School many years ago with Sharon and myself. Come to find out he and his former wife were the owners of the home we purchased from a second owner from them. Just a pleasure to work with him and them always!
Rachael Trout says:
December 20, 2025
I am so saddened by the loss of Brian. I had the pleasure of knowing him from the WVU Charleston campus and I will always remember his wonderful laugh and sense of humor. It was an honor and privilege for all of us at WVU Charleston to know Brian. My deepest condolences to the Young family and a tremendous thank you for sharing him with us.
Evelyn MArtin says:
December 19, 2025
Deb,
I am so sorry to hear this. Brian was so helpful and always talking about you and the girls – you were his life. My husband grew up on music as well, starting at age of 5 and we would talk about all the people they played with. He was always so happy and easy to laugh. I will miss seeing him at the school – he was a good friend. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you all.
Doug Young says:
December 19, 2025
I had the pleasure of working with Brian for many years in WVU building basement. He and I had many things in common. He, like I, would see a problem and would not rest until a good solution was found. We shared many a laugh together over the years. I am positive that there are countless people who will miss him. I am one of them. Brian’s wife, daughters and family are in my thoughts.