Brian Keefe Winfrey

Brian Keefe Winfrey was born October 23, 1964, in Covington, Tennessee to Marilyn C. and Walter K. Winfrey Jr. Brian joined Northwestern Christian Church in Detroit at an early age. In his younger years he was a Cub Scout and avid skateboarder. Brian attended Cass Technical High School and Wayne State University in Detroit, MI. He was a talented sprinter on his high school track team and an enthusiastic member of the Backgammon Club. His most cherished high school memories were as a member of the “Spirits.” While working at TRW Automotive for many years, his entrepreneurial spirit was always present especially in the field of IT. He brought the same dedication and innovation to his work as he did to every area of his life. His gift for building was ever present, whether it was constructing furniture for the family deck, a custom foyer table, renovating bathrooms, or crafting the perfect bar cart to display his beloved bourbon collection. His creations reflected his meticulous attention to detail and his deep love for his home and family. A lover of all music, Brian could equally enjoy a good House music DJ or a relaxing jazz concert, with his wife and friends. He enjoyed the “Old Black Men” dinners with lifelong friends of 40+years he attended at local restaurants around town. His passion for music, food and friendships were a testament to his joyful and open-hearted nature. The generosity of his time extended beyond his immediate family. As president and vice president of the Southfield Youth Soccer League, Brian dedicated years to supporting young athletes, including his son, Zachary. He also volunteered annually to bring joy to children facing economic hardship through a holiday shopping experience in the community. Brian passed away peacefully on December 24, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was a man of integrity, devotion, and boundless creativity who touched the lives of everyone he met. All admired his youthful appearance, infectious smile, dapper style and witty sense of humor. He went to the gym three times a week, but was known to say “I only workout, so can eat what ever I want” Brian was a devoted husband to Ruth for 35 wonderful years and a loving father to Jillian and Zachary, whose lives he filled with guidance, love, and laughter. He leaves to cherish his memory, his parents Walter and Marilyn, his sister, Yolanda Winfrey; niece, Mareisha Winfrey; bonus niece, Brittany Brister; sister-in-law, Chichita Rice; goddaughter, Laura Collier and a host of other beloved relatives and friends.

Brian Keefe Winfrey

October 23, 1964 - December 24, 2024