Obituary of Brian Russell Shinault

Brian Russell Shinault (64) – amazing husband, father, grandfather, coach, and friend - passed away on January 27th, 2023 surrounded by loved ones, after a difficult battle with ALS. He faced this horrible disease the same way he did every other challenge in life, with admirable strength and courage. Throughout his entire journey, he never lost his sense of humor. He cracked jokes, made crazy faces, and even pulled pranks on the nurses. He put smiles and laughter in everyone’s hearts.

Brian was born on January 3rd, 1959 to Eugene and Patricia Shinault in Riverside, NJ. He was a three sport athlete in high school and went on to compete at the collegiate level in basketball at Northern Kentucky University, prior to continuing his studies at the University of Louisville. His passion for sports lasted throughout his life. He was a loyal follower of all Louisville sports teams, as well as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Rays, and Lightning. His enthusiasm was contagious, and he was able to share it with others, as both a coach and a mentor. He could fix almost anything and he was a great cook, who loved to grill. When he wasn’t cooking out, you could find Brian on the dock with a fishing pole, on the beach basking in the water, or enjoying the sunset while eating a big grouper sandwich.

Brian met his future wife Theresa in 1987 and was a devoted husband from the time they wed in 1989. Despite his many accomplishments, there was nothing he was more proud of than being a father to his four children, Tiffany, Drew, Bryce, and Morgan. He loved spending time with them, whether he was helping them with homework, coaching their baseball and basketball teams, or cheering them on at swim meets and beauty pageants. He worked tirelessly to teach his kids the importance of faith and family, unconditional love, patience, sacrifice, hard work, and doing what is right. He also cherished his grandchildren and extended family in Kentucky. He was a true role model, who strived to be the best version of himself each and every day, inspiring everyone around him to do the same. Brian’s children and his influence are his legacy.

Brian was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Patricia, his sister, Becky, his nephew, Michael, and his grandson, Jay. He is survived by many loving family members, including his wife, Theresa; his children, Tiffany (Jason), Drew, Bryce, and Morgan; his grandchildren, Brynna (Jackson) and Ivy; and his great grandchildren, Josef and Mia. He is also survived by his sister, Denise (Danny) and his brother, Billy (Nancy); his nephews, Bob (Karen) and Colin (Alyssa); his nieces, Kim, Kelsey, and Kaitlyn; his great nephews, Lucas and Kole; and his great nieces, Michaela and Alaynah.

Join us in remembering the life of Brian Shinault on Saturday, February 11th from 1pm – 4pm at Anderson-McQueen Family Tribute Center: 2201 Dr. M.L. King Street North, Saint Petersburg, FL 33704. The family will host a Welcome, Memorial Service, and Reception to follow.

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Psalm 23

In lieu of flowers charitable contributions can be made in Brian’s honor to:

1. The ALS Association Florida Chapter: http://www.als.org/florida

They donated loaner equipment and supplies to Brian throughout his illness.

OR

2. St. Anthony’s Hospital Foundation https://www.stanthonysfoundation.org/donate

The nurses and doctors in the CVICU saved Brian’s life and comforted his loved ones when they most needed it.