Brian Scott Story, 69, of Rutland, Massachusetts, formerly of Canandaigua, New York, passed into eternal life on April 18, 2025. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on September 27, 1955, to the late Violet B. and George A. Story, Sr.
Brian’s passing marks the end of an extraordinary life filled with passion, dedication, and an unwavering love for his family, music, and community. He leaves behind a profound legacy that spans more than four decades of music education, composition, and active involvement in both local and national musical communities.
Brian is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Amy Taylor Story, with whom he shared a rich and fulfilling life. Their partnership was a testament to enduring love, mutual respect, and shared interests, including their deep appreciation for the arts and their strong family bond.
Together, they built a family that will continue to carry on his legacy of kindness, generosity, and creativity. Brian is also survived by his two children, Matthew (Carlie Kilgore) Story and Kathryn (Jay) Merrill, who were the pride and joy of his life.
His three grandchildren, Jack Merrill, Mason Merrill, and Rory Kilgore, brought him immeasurable joy, and he found great fulfillment in spending time with them, especially in their shared moments outdoors and reading together.
Brian’s legacy lives on in his children and grandchildren, and his memory will continue to inspire them as they grow. In addition to his immediate family, Brian is survived by two siblings, George Story, Jr. and Pamela Story, as well as seven sisters and brothers-in-law: Susan (Rick) Reese, Deborah (Gene) Kelleher, Janet (Tim) Van Sant, Judith (Nick) Sborlini, Nancy (Brett) Cole, Laura (Stephen) Melis, and Bernard Manfre, along with many nieces and nephews who adored him. He was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Rebecca Manfre.
A graduate of Cherry Hill East High School, Brian went on to pursue higher education at Mansfield University, where he earned both his BS and MS degrees. While at Mansfield, he became an active member of Phi Mu Alpha, an experience that helped shape his lifelong dedication to music.
As a music educator, Brian dedicated 40 years of his life to teaching, impacting thousands of students across the Prattsburgh CSD and Canandaigua City School District in New York, as well as at the Alternative School for Math and Science in Corning, NY.
His teaching left a lasting impression on students who often credited him with inspiring their love for music and providing them with the skills to pursue it both as a hobby and a career.
In addition to his work as a teacher, Brian was a talented composer and arranger. Under the pen name “Brian Scott,” he composed marching band and concert band arrangements for Belwin Publications starting in 1993.
His contributions to the music world extended beyond arrangements, with choral compositions published by Colla Voce. One of Brian’s most notable projects in his final years was the creation of “FREDERICK, Cantata on the Life of Frederick Douglass,” a piece that he poured his heart into, deeply inspired by Douglass’ journey and impact.
This project, though unfinished at the time of his death, reflects Brian’s enduring commitment to using music as a powerful form of storytelling and social reflection.
Brian was also an active participant in various community organizations. His passion for music extended into his personal life, where he was a dedicated member of Madrigalia and Music Spei in Rochester, NY, and the Worcester Chorus and Trinity Lutheran Choir in Worcester, MA.
He was committed to sharing his talents with others and was involved in the Hochstein School of Music and the First Congregational Church of Paxton, MA. He also initiated the Scholastic Arts Spotlight in Rochester, NY, which provided a platform for young artists to showcase their talents.
Outside of his musical endeavors, Brian had many other passions. He enjoyed woodworking, cooking, and driving his TR6. He was always tinkering with something, often fixing things or making improvements. A proud Eagle Scout, Brian remained actively involved in scouting as an adult, giving back to the community that had nurtured him in his youth.
Above all else, Brian was a family man. His love for his wife, children, and grandchildren was unmatched. He treasured spending time with his grandsons, whether it was playing outside or listening to them read. Brian’s legacy of love, creativity, and commitment to family and community will continue to inspire those who were lucky enough to know him.
Friends may call on Thursday, April 24th, from 4 PM to 7 PM, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden, MA. A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 25th, at 10:00 AM at Trinity Lutheran Church, 73 Lancaster Street, Worcester, with a celebration of life to follow at 12:00 PM at Tatnuck Country Club, 1222 Pleasant Street, Worcester.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Brian’s name can be made to The Worcester Chorus c/o Music Worcester, Inc., 319 Main St, Worcester, MA 01608, Attn: Development Manager.
Brian Story’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his legacy in music, teaching, and family will continue to resonate for generations to come. Rest in peace, Brian. You will be deeply missed.
