Brian James McBride

1970 - 2025

Brian James McBride
Chatham - Brian James McBride, 55, of Chatham, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, in Oak Grove, Kentucky.
Brian was born on February 7, 1970, in Aurora, Illinois, the son of Robert M. McBride and Maureen McKinney McBride. He graduated from Jacksonville High School in 1988.
Brian lived his life taking full advantage of the gift each day offers. He believed that tomorrow isn't promised, and he embraced every moment with purpose and passion. He was generous and kind to everyone he met, with a sense of humor that could light up a room and a sincerity that made others feel truly seen and valued.
A true sports enthusiast, Brian was a devoted fan of the Detroit Red Wings, Manchester United, the L.A. Dodgers, and the Dallas Cowboys. He had a deep love for music and was often found dancing at Lick Creek shows, in the company of his dearest friends. Brian was a storyteller at heartquick with a joke or memory shared over a cold beer, a Captain and Coke, or a hot cup of coffee.
Brian worked for Nussbaum Trucking based in Normal, Illinois, a job that allowed him to travel across the countrysomething he truly cherished. He found joy in the open road and loved taking in the beauty of the landscapes he passedwhether it was the majesty of the mountains, the stillness of the desert, or the peacefulness of the ocean.
Brian and Christine Craddock were married on May 5, 2025. Their love story, filled with laughter, music, and adventure, was a beautiful chapter in both of their lives.
He is survived by his loving wife, Christine Craddock McBride of Chatham; his beloved daughter, Alexandra McBride of Jacksonville; his father, Robert (Ellen) McBride of Jacksonville; and his mother, Maureen McBride of Chatham. He is also survived by his sister, Marti McBride (John) Meszaros of Chatham; his brother, Kelly (Kari) McBride of St. Peters, Missouri; his brother-in-law, Bill Craddock of Jacksonville; and his bonus daughter, Megan Craddock of Springfield.
Brian was a proud uncle to his nephews Owen Walstad, Carter Casson, Max Casson, Rory McBride, and Braden Meszaros; and to his niece, Piper McBride. He also leaves behind a large extended family and countless friends who will miss his laughter, energy, and generous heart.
A celebration of Brian's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 20, at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 2200 Meadowbrook Road, in Springfield.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Truckers Final Mile Charity: truckersfinalmile.org.