Laura Brandi "McElhannon" Austin

Laura Brandi Austin, age 49, of Moncure, passed away August 8, 2025 at UNC Medical Center, in Chapel Hill, from a very brief battle with cancer surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on May 26,1976 in Newport News, VA to Samuel Craig McElhannon and the late Elaine Merle Chappel.

Brandi was known for a heart full of love and kindness. She had a smile that would light up the room and eyes that would shine with pride. She never met a stranger; her superpower was making people feel welcome, included, and important. To know her was to love her.

Brandi was a devoted mother of four who enthusiastically celebrated each milestone in her children's lives. Her children were her pride and joy, she absolutely loved being a mom.

She worked in the health care field most of her life, whether it was taking care of her own children and family, or family friends, working for many years as an orthodontist assistant, and most recently as a skilled caregiver to her paraplegic husband, Paul. She was an active board member for the Christopher Reeves Foundation, and a volunteer for the PVA Mid-Atlantic Chapter. She dedicated several hours and countless miles to improving the lives and experiences of our paralyzed veterans.

She is proceeded in death by her mother, Elaine. In addition to her father, Samuel Craig McElhannon and step-mother Trish, Brandi is survived by her husband Paul Jonathan Austin; son Travis Koltermann (Alanna); son Garret Koltermann; son Justin Koltermann (Chantell); daughter Cassidy Guy (Joshua); step-daughter Kayla White (Zack); step-daughter Hayley Dana; sister Dana Pappas (Mick); brother Sterling McElhannon (Gonul); and 5 grandchildren. Also in her family would be very close and dear friends, and fur-babies Raegan, River, Rosie, and a cat that will outlive us all, Jennifer.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 from 11:00 AM until 12:00 PM at Bridges-Cameron Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 12:00 PM in the chapel with Bishop Samuel Craig McElhannon officiating. Burial will follow in Buffalo Cemetery.

As an expression of sympathy, flowers are welcome.