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Area paint contractor was known for his trademark look which included a long ponytail and paint-speckled Atlanta Braves hat
Brian Alexander Stephany, 54, of Essex Junction, Vt., died unexpectedly of natural causes on February 5, 2025. Born in Burlington on January 20, 1971, he was a longtime area painting contractor, most recently as the owner of Lupine Painting and prior to that at Lafayette Painting. In addition to being a highly respected craftsman, Brian was a devoted and loving “papa” to his son, Colter, and daughter, Lune, who survive him. Equally at ease in the company of people from all stations of life, there wasn’t an ear Brian didn’t enjoy bending. He became a recognizable figure to many, with his long ponytail and trademark paint-speckled Atlanta Braves hat — a signature look he committed to for some 25 years! Brian was a member of Burlington High School’s class of 1989 and the goalkeeper on its 1987 state championship soccer team before attending the University of Vermont. He enjoyed reading, cooking and fishing; was an avid Braves fan and Vermont Public listener; and had fond memories of summerlong adventures, working on Nantucket and at Yellowstone National Park. In addition to his children, Brian is survived by his parents, Judith (Edward) Ahearn of Burlington and William (Christie) Stephany of Shelburne, Vt.; siblings, David (Caroline) Stephany of Westerville, Ohio, Kathleen (Liam) Hennessy of Wicklow Town, Ireland, and Nicholas Stephany of Georgia, Vt.; a niece and four nephews, who delighted in his quirky sense of humor; four step-siblings and their families; an uncle, Gerard Buckley, of San Diego; and a wide circle of friends, cousins and extended family. He was predeceased by his grandparents, Mary and F. Alexander Stephany and Agnes and John A. Buckley. A celebration of his life is being planned for springtime. (Please email davestephany@gmail.com for details.) In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Brian’s memory with a donation to the Safe Harbor Health Center or to the Middlebury Area Land Trust, designated for its work with the National Park Service to construct and maintain sections of the North Country National Scenic Trail in Vermont. Please visit his obituary at gregorycremation.com to share your memories…