Brianna Katilyn Barnum

Brianna Katilyn Barnum, age 28, of Saint Stephens, SC, passed away on January 20, 2025. Brianna was born in Charleston, SC, to Lorie Ellis Barnum and the late Orin “Barney” Barnum on May 29, 1996. She was a loving daughter, sister, niece, aunt, and friend, with a heart as big as her spirit.

Brianna leaves behind her devoted mother, Lorie Ellis Barnum; her loving boyfriend, Charlie Anderson Jr.; and her cherished siblings: Elisa Totherow (Robert) of Marble, NC; Corey Barnum (Jaclyn) of Cummings, GA; Ashley Petersen (Daryl) of Charlotte, NC; and Austin Barnum of Charleston, SC. She is also survived by her grandparents: James William Ellis and Judy Ann Ellis of Round O, SC; and Pat Barnum of Moses Lake, WA; two nieces, Peyton Leigh Barnum and Willow Totherow; two nephews, Landon and Braxton Totherow; her lifelong friend and sister at heart, Savannah Creech of Tennessee; and her beloved fur baby, Ivory Yuki.

Brianna was preceded in death by her father, Orin LeRoy “Barney” Barnum; her grandfather, Orin Barnum; her uncle, Orange Barnum; and her aunt, Kayleen Huxhold.

Brianna graduated from Fort Dorchester High School in North Charleston, SC, and went on to earn her associate’s degree in criminal justice from Trident Technical College. She was continuing her studies at The Citadel, working toward her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Brianna was known for her infectious smile and her sense of wonder leading us to reflect on her various passions and interests. Brianna loved all things encompassing the fandom of Harry Potter and found herself lost in captivating tv shows like Law & Order SVU, NCIS, and Grey’s Anatomy. Brianna was much like her favorite flower, the sunflower, both strong, beautiful, and radiant. She found joy in the little things, like sipping her favorite coffee from Dunkin’ Donuts, or enjoying a meal at Olive Garden, where she and Charlie shared the fond memory of their very first dinner date. In her adolescence Brianna played the trumpet and played softball, both showcasing her energetic and ambitious personality. She was an avid fan of the Atlanta Braves, but more importantly she was Austin Riley’s number one fan. Above all, Brianna’s love for her family was endless. She shared a very special bond with her niece, Peyton (Pey-Pey), and was affectionately known as “Aunt KK.” She relished in spoiling those closest to her by taking the time to make them home-cooked meals. Brianna’s heart was full of love, just like her mother’s, and she made everyone around her feel cherished. In memory of Brianna, let’s all remember the laughter, the love, and the little things that brought her joy, from her love of Mustangs to her “humorously terrified” reactions to frogs. She will always be remembered for her kindness, her humor, and her beautiful soul.

A visitation for family and friends will be held at Carolina Memorial Funeral Home on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM. A graveside service will follow at 2:00 PM at Carolina Memorial Gardens, 7113 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC 29406.