Brian T. LaRose

Brian T. LaRose, 60, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Walterboro, SC, on December 3, 2024. He was born on May 29, 1964, to Leland and the late Judy (Burns) LaRose, at Beaufort Naval Hospital in South Carolina. Brian grew up traveling the country with his family alongside his sister, Annie, and brother, Thomas, he embraced the adventurous and resilient spirit that defined his early years. 

Brian graduated from Maryville High School in Maryville, Missouri, in 1982. That same year, he enlisted in the US Army Reserves as a Veterinary Technician, where he developed a passion for service and a commitment to his country. Transitioning to active duty in 1986, he proudly graduated Warrant Officer Candidate School, Warrant Officer Pilot Training, and US Army Flight School in 1989 as a Chief Warrant Officer and Medevac Pilot. Brian served his country with distinction for 13 years, including a tour in the Gulf War during Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield. Brian retired at the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CWO2), in 1995. His military career reflected his unwavering patriotism, courage, and dedication to saving lives. 

After his military service, Brian applied his resilience and resourcefulness to a variety of industries. He continued his education and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration from the Upper Iowa University in 1996. Whether it was leading people, streamlining operations, or mentoring coworkers, Brian’s ability to tackle challenges with creativity and persistence earned him admiration and respect wherever he worked. He became widely known as a “fixer” in a wide array of chain retail stores, retirement communities, logistical facilities operations, and later, the hospitality industry. 

Aside from his professional career, Brian expressed his love of music by competing in country music contests, where his rich voice and heartfelt performances resonated with audiences in the midwest region. As his faith deepened, he shifted his focus to worship and praise music, becoming an active member of multiple church worship teams. His vocal talents brought comfort and joy to congregations, leaving a lasting impression on all who heard him sing. In addition to his faith and music, Brian found joy in the outdoors; training dogs and horses, and hunting deer. He was also a skilled craftsman, pouring his hard work ethic and creativity into remodeling a myriad of homes. 

Brian is survived by his father, Leland LaRose of Fairfax, SC; his sister, Annie Tingley (Del) of Islandton, SC; his brother, Thomas LaRose of Islandton, SC; his five children; Adam LaRose (Jenna) of Kalispell, MT; Jake LaRose (Rebecca) of Omaha, NE; Creighton LaRose of Wichita, KS; Cecilia LaRose of Burrton, KS; and Medora LaRose of Moundridge, KS; his grandchildren, Orly and Birch LaRose; his nephew, Zach Bottiger (Haley) of Fort Atkinson, WI, and their three sons; Pearson, Colton, and Sullivan. Brian was preceded in death by his mother, Judy LaRose, and his son, Austin LaRose. He leaves behind a large extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins who will miss him dearly. 

Brian’s life was a testament to dedication, talent, and compassion for his faith and fellow man. His devotion to his family, his vibrant presence, and his steadfast example of kindness and service will remain an enduring inspiration to all who knew him. He will be remembered fondly and missed deeply by all whose lives he touched. 

A celebration of Brian’s life will be held at the Bram Funeral Home, Maryville, Missouri, on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at 1:00pm.  The burial will full military honors will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Maryville, Missouri.

The family will greet friends from Noon until service time on Sunday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Javelan chapter of the First Responder Foundation. Javelan, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing service dogs to enrich the lives of military veterans (specifically with PTSD), enabling independence and life-changing support. https://firstrespondersfoundation.org/donate/.