Gary M. Brian 1950-2026

He was born Aug. 1, 1950, in Warren, the son of Andrew and Bernice Burrows Brian.

Gary was a 1968 graduate of Niles McKinley High School and a 1972 graduate of Ohio University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. He also served several years as a deputy sheriff auxiliary.

He was employed as head pastry chef at The Grand Hotel in Mackinac Island, Michigan, for several summer seasons. Early in his career he inherited from his father the Sugar and Spice Bakery in downtown Niles, , locally renowned for its doughnuts, which he owned and operated, and also owned Cakes for Occasions, a home-based business, for seven years. Gary also drove a school bus for Niles City Schools and Austintown Schools, retiring in 2021.

He enjoyed fishing, baking and music and was an avid fan of Journey, Foreigner and The Doobie Brothers.

His wife, Judith Paris Brian, whom he happily married June 17, 1972, passed away Nov. 26, 2025. They would have celebrated their 54th anniversary today.

He will be dearly missed by two sons, Jason Brian and his wife, Emily, of Asheville, North Carolina; and Jeffrey Brian of Las Vegas, Nevada; a daughter, Jenna Brian of Cortland; and a granddaughter, Eleanor Brian.

He was preceded in death by his parents and by a brother, Randy Brian.

Friends may call 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, June 18, 2026, at the Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home, Niles, where funeral services will begin at 7 p.m.

Burial will be in Niles City Cemetery.

Arrangements were handled by the Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home, Niles.

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