Mr. BRIAN SCOTT LANHAM, 56, of Poca, West Virginia, passed away peacefully from an unexpected illness at home on July 31, 2026.
Brian was a 1988 graduate of Poca High School and a lifelong fan of the Dots. Brian went on to graduate from West Virginia State University, where he earned his degree in Biology. He spent twenty years working as a chief plant operator for both the Charleston and Dunbar sanitary boards.
Brian was a loving father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. To know Brian was to know a man with an unforgettable presence. He was remarkably funny, extraordinarily strong, impeccably dressed, and usually the sharpest-looking person in any room he entered. He carried himself with confidence and style, but never took himself so seriously that he could not stage one of his famous fake falls in public simply to make those around him laugh. Brian possessed the rare ability to turn an ordinary moment into a story that would be told and enjoyed for decades.
Brian had a genuine love for animals and an intellectual curiosity that kept him interested in the world around him. He made people laugh, encouraged them to think, and showed that he cared in ways both memorable and deeply personal.
While Brian’s loss is immeasurable, his family is forever grateful for the laughter, lessons, generosity, and memories he gave them. We take comfort in knowing that Brian has been reunited in Heaven with his parents, Larry and Helen Lanham; his brother, Larry Brent Lanham; and his son, Noah Lanham.
He is survived by his brother, Anthony Bart Lanham (Vickie Lanham); his brother-in-law, Robert Lamb; his nephews, Joshua Allen Lanham (Brooke Nida); Jacob Bradley Lanham (Samantha Lanham); his great-nieces, Livia and Lacy Lanham; and a host of extended family members, friends, and loved ones who will miss him dearly.
A tribute to the life of Mr. Brian Lanham will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home, with Pastor Bron Walker officiating. Family and friends may visit from 5:00 p.m. until the time of the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Putnam County Animal Shelter.
