Brian K Willison

Brian Keith Willison, 65, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, entered the presence of his Lord on June 30, 2026, after complications from a stroke.

Born on October 7, 1960, in Cumberland, Maryland, Brian was the son of William and Helen Willison and grew up in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. He attended Shippensburg University and later completed his ministerial training, becoming an ordained pastor in the brethren in Christ Church. Throughout his life, Brian worked in several careers, most recently at Sharp Shopper in Leola, but his greatest calling was serving others through ministry.

Brian faithfully pastored Hempfield Brethren in Christ Church, Redland Valley Brethren in Christ Church, and Speedwell Heights Brethren in Christ Church. His faith shaped every part of his life.

After nearly every church service, even after he had stepped away from pastoral ministry, you could find Brian, usually with Judy by his side, talking with friends or welcoming someone new. More often than not, they were among the last to leave, sometimes lingering until it was time to turn out the lights. Brian believed everyone deserved to feel seen, heard, and welcomed, and he made it a point to give each person his time and attention.

Brian is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Judy; his sons, Ian and his wife, Crystal, and their children, Jacob, Mia, and Ezra; Sean and his wife, Beka, and their children, Owen, Lucy, and Amelia; and Seth and his wife, Ellen. He is also survived by his siblings, Ruth Lee Murr and her husband, Barry; Connie Guare and her husband, Gary; and David Willison and his wife, Stephanie. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Helen Willison, and his brother, Jerry Willison.

Brian loved the simple things in life: spending time with family and friends, baking, cheering for the Pittsburgh Steelers, and making people laugh. His laugh was unmistakable. You could hear it from across the room, and he never passed up the chance to play a harmless prank if it meant making someone laugh. He will be remembered for his kindness, his joyful spirit, and the way he made people feel seen, heard, and loved.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Hope Born in Christ Church, 2600 Marietta Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17601. A luncheon will immediately follow the service, and all who know Brian are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorial contributions to the American Stroke Association in Brian's memory. The family also extends their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses, and staff of Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health for the compassionate care they provided to Brian and the kindness they showed to his family during his final days.

Brian's life was a testimony to humble faith, quiet service, and love for others. While he will be deeply missed, his family rejoices in the hope of Christ that he faithfully shared throughout his life.