Brian Douglas Riston Sr.

Brian Douglas Riston, age 73, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on Thursday, November 12, 2026. He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on February 28, 1953, to the late John and Willa Ruth Riston (née Johnson).

Brian was preceded in death by his parents, John and Willa Ruth Riston; and his sisters, Shirley Chapman, Charlene Wynn, and Sandra Chapman; niece Dawanna

He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Juane Madaris; sons, Brian Donte (Yuri) Riston Jr. and Juan Riston; former wives, Gwendolyn Gray and Althea Riston; grandchildren, Bianca Riston, Darlisha Riston, Elise Browning, Mister Kendall, Larry Bohannon Jr., Juane Bohannon, Cha'Ra Riston-Barnwell, Briy'Onna Riston, Brian Riston III, Za'Marion Riston, Valentino Riston, and Bri'Anna Riston; and great-grandchildren, Shamyah Riston, Christian Riston, Jayden Riston, De'Airra/Joyee Roscoe, Madison Booker, Mia Riston, Angel Bohannon, Ayden Bohannon, Amari Bohannon, Timothy Price, Mahagony Pankey, Dont'e Pruitt, Delont'e Pruitt Jr., and Capri Davis.

He is also survived by his sister, Julia Riston; brother, Ronald Riston; dear friends, Gary, Richard, and Ronnie; nephews, Orlando, Chris and Daniel; nieces, Danita, Trevay, Tanisha, Kimberly, and Tamela; along with a host of other loving family members and friends.

A Life Full of Love, Laughter, and Memories:

If you knew Brian, you knew there was nobody quite like him. Affectionately known as "Cool Breeze," Brian was a man who carried himself with confidence, style, charisma, and a swag all his own. He had a great sense of humor, a way with words, and a personality that could light up a room. One of his favorite sayings was, "A wise man once said..." and you never knew what words of wisdom or laughter would follow.

Brian proudly served in the United States Navy. He had a love for working on cars and enjoyed music and dancing. When Mel Waiters' "I Got My Whiskey" came on, you could count on Brian to hit the dance floor. He also loved performing with his brother and friends, especially singing and dancing to The Temptations' classics, "My Girl" and "Ain't Too Proud to Beg." Those performances created memories that his family and friends will treasure forever.

Brian also enjoyed his time working as a custodian at Mount Auburn Academy, where he became someone the children loved and remembered. He had a special way of connecting with people and making an impression wherever he went.

More than anything, Brian was the heart of his family. He was a protector, a guardian, and someone who always had his loved ones' backs. If someone needed him, he showed up. He was the kind of person who would stand beside you, defend you, and make sure you never felt alone. He believed strongly in standing up for what was right, and although he could go from zero to one hundred in a heartbeat, his heart was always in the right place.

Brian was a loyal friend who valued lifelong friendships. Many of the friendships he cherished began when he was just a teenager, and he remained devoted to those relationships throughout his life. Loyalty meant something to him, and he never forgot the people who had been there along the way.

He also had a playful side. Brian would tell people his birthday was February 29, just so he could celebrate on February 28 or March 1. That was Brian—always finding a way to bring a smile and make people laugh.

Throughout his life, Brian showed himself to be a fighter. He never backed down from a challenge and faced life's battles with determination. In time, he made one of the most meaningful decisions of his life: he gave his life to God, became a Deacon, and dedicated himself to walking in faith.

Above all, Brian loved his family and took pride in protecting those he loved. He was a strong presence, a helping hand, a loyal friend, and a source of laughter and wisdom. His presence will be deeply missed, but the stories, memories, lessons, and love he leaves behind will live on through the many lives he touched.

Rest peacefully, Cool Breeze. Your style, your laughter, your dance moves, your loyalty, and your unforgettable spirit will never be forgotten. You may be gone from our sight, but you will forever remain in our hearts.

Funeral Services:

The funeral ceremony will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 21, 2026, with visitation from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at: Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions – West Side Chapel3300 Parkcrest Lane Cincinnati, Ohio 45211.

To share a memory of Brian or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.