Brian Bellis

Wilmington - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear brother and devoted father, Brian James Bellis, on September 3, 2026, at the age of 66. Brian died peacefully in his sleep after a brief illness, with his loving daughters, Jennifer and Corey, at his side.

Brian is survived by his siblings Ted, Nancy, and Bob; former wife, Caroline and their daughters, Jennifer and Corey (Moore); son-in-law, Gary Moore; nieces and nephews, Chris, Erin, Michael, Julia, Kristen, and Teddy; grandchildren, Kyle and Lily; and great-nieces, Moira and Vivian. He was predeceased by his parents, Ted and Doris and his brother, Jon.

Brian was born in Wantagh, NY, on November 17, 1959, as the fourth of five children to Ted and Doris Bellis. He excelled in many areas, most notably academics and in music, his life-long passion. He delighted his family, particularly his Mom, with his endless supply of elephant jokes, and all who knew him admired his keen wit. His engaging personality and encyclopedic memory garnered him many friends and he was a loyal friend in return. He will be deeply missed by everyone in his family and all who knew him.

Brian graduated from Wantagh High School in 1977 and continued his studies at Brown University (Class of 1983; B.S. in Geological Sciences) and North Carolina State University, (Class of 1985; M.S. in Hydrogeology). Brian embarked on a 40-year career as a hydrogeologist, overseeing comprehensive environmental contamination assessment and remediation projects under a variety of federal and state regulatory programs. He first worked with Metcalf & Eddy and then became a principal hydrogeologist at Law Engineering. He spent the remaining 24 years with WithersRavenel as a Senior Hydrogeologist/Environmental Senior Technical Consultant. Applying his extensive expertise in the investigation and analysis of groundwater and soil contamination, Brian contributed to the cleanup of countless sites across North Carolina and beyond. Brian’s passion for geology was inescapable and infectious. He took great pride in his and his colleagues’ important work, and in training the next generation of scientists.

In addition to his demanding career, Brian was an accomplished musician, excelling at the trumpet, French horn, flugel horn, piano, keyboards, guitar, and vocals. He was a member of many musical groups throughout his life, which were a treasured source of joy and friendship. At the time of his passing, he was looking forward to playing with the Harbour Towne Fest Band during the upcoming Oktoberfest season, and continuing his musical adventures with band Jen & Tonic. Brian was also an avid golfer and cherished his brother Jon’s visits to play golf. But none of this exceeded his love for his family, especially his accomplished daughters and beautiful grandchildren, Kyle and Lily, who were his greatest joy in life.

Although it is impossible to adequately describe the rich life Brian lived and the heartache caused by his leaving us too soon, we know that his legacy will live on in all who knew him. Rest well, dearest Brian, and give Mom, Dad, and Jon a hug for us before you head off to your tee time.

A Celebration of Life service will be held; date and time of service will be posted soon. 

Tranquility Cremation by Aquamation

910-769-1615