Brady Winston McKay

Brady Winston McKay entered this world 24 years ago surrounded by love, upheld by faith, and deeply cherished by his family and friends. On May 23, 2026, he left it the very same way… wrapped in the love of those closest to him and carried home by a God who adored him completely.

Though Brady’s adventures on this side of heaven ended far too soon, the impact of his life will continue because of the way he lived. Every single day, regardless of circumstance, Brady chose people over possessions, hope over discouragement, and joy over sorrow. Diagnosed with brain cancer at just 17 years old, he refused to let his diagnosis define him. Instead, he lived with purpose, integrity, humility, and unwavering light, teaching everyone around him how to do the same.

Brady graduated with honors from Lake Norman Charter High School, where he was recognized as a Top Six Senior. His faith foundation was built at Christ United Methodist Church, where he occupied the back left pew each Sunday and belonged to the “Grumpy Old Men” Sunday School class. He later became a proud East Carolina Pirate, graduating summa cum laude from the ECU Honors College on a full academic scholarship. Brady was named 2024 Construction Management Student of the Year, served as President of the Construction Management Club, and was an active member of the Wesley Foundation. He attended St. James United Methodist Church during his college years, where he taught youth Sunday School. He had recently begun work on his MBA when his cancer returned.

Brady found joy in so many things: volunteering at BRASS Camp, traveling throughout Europe, building elaborate Lego creations, riding roller coasters, coaching swim team, drinking cold Red Oak beer, harassing Nurse Kratchit, weekly dinners (and drinks!) with his brother, and relentlessly teasing his sister. His taste in music could shift effortlessly from symphony orchestra to Metallica, from Jimmy Buffett to classic rock. He loved a steak cooked by Mr. Kenny, lunches with Uncle Kendrick, woodworking beside Mr. John, and time spent with his beloved rescue pup, Brina. At the center of Brady’s world was Sydney; his best friend, his safe place, and the person he treasured most.

There was not a day that went by that Brady didn’t know he was loved and supported by a village of the most amazing humans who served as his family, friends, mentors, cheerleaders, and surrogate parents. He will be missed beyond words because he was loved beyond measure.

Brady’s high school senior quote, from Randy Pausch, perfectly reflected the way he lived: “We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand.”

Life handed Brady extraordinary challenges, but he played his hand with courage, grace, humor, and faith. For seven years and seven days, he fought the good fight. Now, he rests in the arms of Jesus: fully healed, fully whole, and surrounded by perfect peace… waiting for the day we will see him again in eternal glory.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Brady Fund at Camp Maria Retreat Center (campmaria.org), home of BRASS Camp. It was Brady’s heartfelt wish to create an outdoor pavilion on the grounds. All contributions will go toward bringing his vision to life.

Please join us in celebrating a life that was lived beautifully and well:

Friday, May 29, 2026 at Muddy River Distillery, from 5:00–8:00 PM, 250 N Main Street, Mt. Holly, NC. Please feel free to drop in to share memories, stories, and hugs.

Brady's celebration of life will be held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, May 30, 2026 at Myers United Methodist Church, 301 S. New Hope Road, Gastonia, NC. Sanctuary doors will open at 1:00 pm. Guests are encouraged to wear ECU purple and gold, bright colors, or camp shirts.

Following the service, the McKay family will move to their home church, Christ United Methodist, 8020 Bellhaven Blvd., Charlotte, NC for a fellowship gathering in the Family Life Center.

Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home & Cremation Services is caring for the McKay family. Condolences and memories  may be shared at www.KepnerFH.com