Joe Alister Brady, Jr.

Joe Alister “Al” Brady was born in Jackson, Mississippi to Joe Alister Brady and Frances Johnson Brady. He was a Southern Gentleman with impeccable manners, a quick wit and an infectious sense of humor. Al had an extraordinary ability to brighten any room and uplift those around him.

He is survived by his devoted husband and life partner of 48 years, Michael Lanzilotta, with whom he shared an unparalleled bond of love and companionship. Their relationship was a testament to commitment and filled with love and laughter and unwavering support.

Al deeply loved his family and took great pride in them. He will be missed immensely by his sister and brother-in-law, Joan and Buster Bailey; his cherished niece, Leigh Bailey; his nephews, Coyt Bailey and great nephew, Hugh Bailey, his great niece Sara Bailey and his great niece and namesake, Alister Rothrock.

Al graduated from Murrah High School, the University of Mississippi, and Georgia State University. Al received his law degree from University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) and a master’s degree in counseling from Georgia State University. Al was dedicated to personal growth, always reading and sharing his intelligent insight with others.

In 1994, Al and Michael purchased their second home in Highlands, North Carolina and made it their full-time residence in 2013. Al loved Highlands and developed wonderful friendships with a group affectionately called his “Highlands Family”. Al’s commitment to his beloved Highlands led him to become deeply involved with community, serving as Chairman of the Board of the Counseling Center. Al was a founding member of Indivisible of Highlands and held the roles of former Democratic Precinct Chair and Co-Chair. Al was passionate about fighting for justice and equality. Using his boundless energy and compassionate spirit, he was a bright light in a sometimes-dark world. He was always thinking of others.

His community work included his profound contributions to the Episcopal Church of the Incarnation, where he was a choir member and former Vestry member, playing a pivotal role in the church’s mission to Haiti, alongside Jane Chalker.

Beyond his civic and church endeavors, Al’s love extended to his cherished dachshunds, Luigi and Travis, who were an important part of his life.

A celebration of Al’s life will be held on December 20th at the Church of the Incarnation in Highlands, NC. Friends and family are invited to visit with his loved ones starting at 11 a.m. in the Parish Hall, followed by a funeral service at 12 p.m. in the Nave, accompanied by his beloved choir. A reception will follow immediately afterward in the Parish Hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Al’s honor to Ansanm (which means “Together”), the Haiti Mission at 520 Main Street, Highlands, NC 28741, or online at finance@incarnation.org, or alternatively to the Highlands Food Pantry at 348 S. Fifth Street, Highlands, NC 28741, or online at highlandsfriendshipcenter.org.

Online condolences can be left at www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Brady family.