D. Brian Ailey

Brian graduated from Brainerd High School, and Carson Newman College., Brian spent 40 years as a music teacher, the major part at Hixson Middle School, where he was beloved by all his students, many of whom said “he was like a father to them”.

Brian shared his vocal and piano talent at his church, Brainerd United Methodist, and in the Scenic City Chorale, as well as with the Chattanooga Symphony Opera. Although an accomplished pianist and musician, his heart was in composing music. Recently he sang one of his own compositions at the Scenic City Chorale’s Christmas program.

Brian was preceded in death by his father Michael Lewis Ailey and beloved stepfather Donald S. Eldridge.

He is survived by his mother, Gladys E. Eldridge, and sisters Deborah Nite (Tom), and Theresa Cato (Steve), as well as nephews Joshua Nite (Jess) of Minneapolis and Charles Duesler of Chattanooga; nieces Andrea Calvo (Francisco) of Orange, CA, and Evelyn Nite of Chattanooga. He is also survived by two great-nieces: Isabel Calvo and Winifred Nite, and four great nephews: Oliver Nite, Joseph Calvo, Aidan and Nathan Briscoe—who deemed him “a big kid.” He will be greatly missed by his family, and many many dear friends.

A Celebration of Brian’s Life will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 3pm at the Brainerd United Methodist Church with Rev. Tim Bracken officiating. The family will receive friends also at the church prior to the service beginning at 1:00 pm. He will be laid to rest in the Brainerd UMC Cemetery immediately following the funeral.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorial contributions in Brian’s memory be made to Brainerd united Methodist Church.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastChapel.com

Chattanooga Funeral Home East Chapel, 404 S. Moore Rd., East Ridge, TN., has been entrusted with the arrangements.