Brian James Grainer

Brian James Grainer, 70, of Centreville, Virginia, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his devoted family on October 27, 2025, after battling Lewy Body Dementia. Brian was born on September 1,1955, in New Rochelle, New York. He was the third of eight children of the late Stephen and Muriel Grainer. The family moved to Annandale, Virginia in 1964 where Brian developed a passion for sports. At Annandale High School he threw discus, won District Champion honors in Wrestling, and he was notably the center and place kicker for the Atoms football team during some of their glory years. They won their District in 1971 and 1972, were Regional and AAA Virginia State Champions in 1972, and this team was inducted into the Annandale Hall of Fame in 2024. Brian attended Madison College (now James Madison University) where he completed his degree in Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies and Education in 1977. His love of sports also continued through college and helped lead him on his lifetime career path. In wrestling, he was a 2-year letterman, state runner up, and member of the 1975 Virginia College Athletic Association (VCAA) State Championship team. He was a 4-year starting center on the football team where he earned VCAA All Conference Honors 3 times. The 1975 team earned the VCAA State Football Championship and are still the only undefeated JMU team to date. He was a team leader who was universally respected by teammates, coaches, and athletic department staff alike. After graduating college, Brian moved to Charlottesville, Virginia to teach and coach at Albemarle High School from 1977-1986. He taught Social Studies and coached Football, Lacrosse, and Indoor Track. He also established the local Wrestling Officials Association and became their first Commissioner. It was here that Brian and Pam first met while she was student teaching. They married in 1980 and continued to teach and coach together for several years where they formed many lifelong friendships that are still strong today. The Grainers returned to Fairfax County, Virginia in 1986 where they settled in Centreville. Throughout his 25 years with Fairfax County Public Schools, Brian taught social studies at Mount Vernon High School, Fairfax High School, Lanier Middle School and Chantilly High School. During this time, he also coached football, lacrosse, and softball. After earning a Master Degree in Educational Leadership from George Mason University in 1995, he became Assistant Director then Director of Student Activities at Marshall High School through 2004. Brian then spent the remainder of his career at Westfield High School as an Assistant Principal until he retired in 2011. Brian is remembered as someone who had a calm teaching, coaching, and leadership approach; always exemplified integrity; and cared deeply for the students, athletes, staff and communities he served. With his strong dedication over his 34 year career he was a well-respected coach, mentor, colleague, and friend. Many also remember his dry sense of humor and an occasional fondness for mischief. Brian’s wife Pam and their three girls Ashlie, Brittany, and Kelsey were his world. As busy as he was, he was always present for his family. He enjoyed watching his daughters play sports and taking family vacations, especially to the Outer Banks. He welcomed 2 sons-in-law and 4 grandsons to the mix with love and open arms. His dedication to creating memories while pushing them to always better themselves has served as a cornerstone for who they all are today. His numerous beloved dogs over the years were also a huge part of his family life. Brian was considered somewhat of a “dog whisperer” and known to be very generous with peanut butter pretzel treats. Brian also enjoyed hunting and fishing when time allowed. After retirement, Brian and Pam enjoyed many trips traveling about the country and world. Recent reconnections and gatherings the last few years with former high school and college teammates and coaches, along with decades of JMU football season tickets enjoyed with his family, brought many cherished memories and much joy to his life. Those who knew Brian will remember him for his infectious smile, overwhelming laughter, his faith in God, and his unwavering commitment to spreading love and kindness to everyone he encountered. He had a gift for making others feel heard and respected, leaving a lasting impact on all who crossed his path. Although Brian’s physical presence may no longer grace our lives, his spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. May his memory be a blessing, and may we carry forth his legacy of love and compassion in all that we do. As you continue to watch over us, Brian, your light will forever shine brightly in our hearts. Brian is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Pamela Jillson ; their three daughters, Ashlie Alvarado (Matthew), Brittany Grainer, and Kelsey Feathers (Matthew); four grandsons, Miles and Theoden Alvarado, Jaxon and Finnley Feathers; and four family dogs, Cooper, Ryker, Nugget, and Madison. He is predeceased by brother Stephen and survived by siblings Michael (Liz), Susan, Karen (Jack), Toni, Peter (Ginny), and Claudia (Phil). He was a proud and loving uncle to numerous nieces and nephews. Family will be holding a Visitation gathering at Pierce Funeral Home in Manassas, Virginia on Thursday December 4, 2025, 6-8pm. A funeral mass will be held on Friday December 5 at 10:30 am at St. Timothys Catholic Church in Chantilly, Virginia and a Celebration of Life at Piedmont Club in Haymarket, Virginia 12-3 pm. Burial will be at Little Georgetown Cemetery in Broad Run, Virginia on Saturday December 6 at noon for those who choose to attend. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA.org) or an animal shelter of your choice.

Brian James Grainer

September 1, 1955 - October 27, 2025