Brian D. McGinley, 67, passed away on May 17, 2026, in Lincoln, Nebraska. He was born September 15, 1958, in Dallas, Texas to Eugene and Jenelle McGinley.
Brian was known for his larger-than-life personality and the joy he brought to everyone around him. Deeply caring, sincere, generous, and easygoing, he had a remarkable gift for making people feel seen, welcomed, and valued. His charisma and energy could light up any room, and his laughter, warmth, and magnetic spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Brian was a devoted husband, father, family member, and friend whose loyalty, tenacity, and cheerful nature defined his life.
A man of deep faith, Brian’s love for Jesus guided the way he lived and cared for others. He was always ready to lend a helping hand, share encouragement, or strike up a meaningful conversation. He loved teaching and inspiring others, and nowhere was that more evident than in the Civil War Club he founded at school. Students eagerly participated in the club’s activities, especially the Gettysburg Address competitions he organized each semester, creating lasting memories and fostering a love of history in countless young people.
Brian was an avid civil rights advocate with a special interest and adoration for Abraham Lincoln. He held a deep passion for Civil War history, Husker sports, classic movies and television, musicals, reading, and all things Nebraska. He possessed a beautiful speaking voice and an absolute passion for singing. At times his singing could have been considered somewhat delightfully off key, but his pure enthusiasm and joy drew people to him all the same. Wendy will always remember their strong connection, his intensity, positivity, and the fun and excitement he brought to everyday life. Above all, Brian’s devotion to his family, his zest for life, and his unwavering desire to help others will remain his enduring legacy.
Brian is survived by his wife, Wendy; sons, Daniel and Dennis; and numerous family members and friends.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 1 PM, at Wyuka Funeral Home, 3600 “O” Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68510.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be donated to People’s City Mission.HERE
Brian’s Service will be livestreamed HERE
Brian, Mark and I already miss talking to you. We loved your passion for God, your family, President Lincoln, and the Huskers. And although you are missed , I can only imagine what a beautiful miraculous Heaven you now live in with Our Lord. We love you Wendy, Daniel, and Dennis and send our condolence.
Thank you Bambi and Mark.
He left us way too soon, but I am consoled and confident by the fact that he is no longer suffering and is in the presence of our Lord.
Wendy, I just found your message about Brian. My Facebook is all messed up. Brian was such a beautiful person, both inside and out. He walked in the footsteps of God, loving, kind, and warm to every person both friend and stranger. Sending you a huge hug.
I am struck by the complexity of human existence. Brian was a man fierce in his loyalty and beliefs but profoundly kind and gentle in his intent. His soul was like sunlight, forever burning bright. He will always remain in our hearts, however, the world is lessened by his demise. My most heartfelt thoughts are with all those who loved him.
I first met Brian during my freshman year in UNL. I was squeezed as ‘third guy’ into a bigger two-person room. Through my new room mates LaDean and Kent, I met Brian.
Later that year, as some students departed college, a regular room opened up. Brian and I agreed to try rooming together, and we had a shared room for about a year and half. Brian was a good student, who was easily distracted by anyone’s interruptions for some student counseling, a late night chat, or prayer group. Brian followed his calling into both ministry and counseling, finally settling on a teaching degree, where he could influence young people and open their thinking about God.
After college, everyone goes the way their path splits, so I lost track of Brian as he moved to Texas. Later in life, we linked back up via email and a couple of calls…. then he moved back to Lincoln. His house in Texas was the ONE on the block with a Husker flag when the Google Map car drove by…. Always a Husker Fan! :)
My most sincere wishes of condolence for his family, and swift and safe passage to the Promised Land. We all hope to get there someday….. just maybe not yet.