Brian E. Shanabrough

Brian E. Shanabrough, 71, took his final trip on Monday, August 18, 2025, from York North Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation. We imagine he left this world the way he would have liked-music in the air, dogs at his side, and the Saints on the TV. Brian was born on August 10, 1954, in York, and was the son of the late George E. and Anna M. (Wetzel) Shanabrough. He spent much of his life on the road as a truck driver for Randle Reed Trucking and Builders Transportation, collecting more miles and stories than most of us could count. But Brian wasn't just about highways-he had a soft spot for his hometown of York, a serious devotion to the Baltimore Orioles and New Orleans Saints, and a lifelong love for his four-legged companions. A proud veteran, Brian served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. Later in life, he discovered one of his happiest places: New Orleans. Whether it was the food, the music, or the magic of a second line band parading down the street, the Crescent City called to him. It was a place where joy could be found in a saxophone riff and a crowd that danced away sorrow-something Brian carried with him wherever he went. Those who knew him also knew his dogs were family. From the legendary rat terrier Dink, who preceded him in death (but is surely waiting to greet him at the Rainbow Bridge), to his grand-dogs Roux, Iko, and Calliope, Brian's life was filled with paw prints and wagging tails. Brian is survived by his daughter, Allison Shanabrough of Louisville, MS; his sister Donna Watson and her husband Jerry of York; his former spouse and lifelong friend, Sylvia Shanabrough of Louisville, MS; and his beloved grand-dogs. He was preceded in death by his sister, Alisa Jonosky. Funeral services will be Saturday, August 23 at 10 a.m. in the Massey Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will be the day of the service from 9:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home in Louisville. Interment will immediately follow the service in Louisville Memorial Cemetery. In the spirit of New Orleans, family and friends are encouraged to honor him with music, laughter, and maybe even a little second line strut. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the wonderful caregivers from Senior Helpers, who walked alongside Brian with kindness, humor, and compassion in his final years. They are also deeply grateful for the friendship and support of his neighbors, whose kindness made his days brighter and reminded him that community is family too. Memorial contributions may be made to the National MS Society at nationalmssociety.org or to a favorite charity of your choice. Services are under the direction of Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.masseyfuneralhome.net.