BRIAN EASTON July 17, 1957 – March 17. 2026
On Tuesday, March 17, 2026, Brian Easton, beloved brother, esteemed teacher and long-time resident of Los Alamos, New Mexico, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 68.
Brian was born on July 17, 1957, in Saint Joseph, Michigan; his parents were John and Marilyn Easton. He spent his early childhood in Michigan, moving to Oxford, Maryland at age 11.
Brian attended the College of William & Mary, graduating with honors in 1979, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Government and Economics. He earned his Juris Doctorate at the University of Michigan Law School in 1982.
Brian began his legal career in civil law practice with a large Seattle law firm establishing its Alaska office. In 1986, he moved into criminal law practice with the Alaska Public Defender Agency, later forming his own practice. He handled a wide variety of criminal cases, working in different areas of Alaska including remote villages.
After 14 years of legal practice, Brian moved to New Mexico and worked to become a teacher. He received a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from New Mexico Highlands University in 1998 and was hired by Los Alamos High School. Brian taught a variety of social studies classes over his 25+ years at LAHS but predominantly was the Economics teacher.
A beloved and well-respected teacher, Brian was known for his quick wit, sense of humor and kind nature. Wearing his trademark suspenders and bushy mustache, Brian used storytelling, jokes and video game references to help students engage with difficult material. He made a lasting impact on many of his students.
Brian was a mentor to his colleagues and was active with the local teachers’ union as well. He also participated in the Democratic Party of Los Alamos County.
In May 2024, Brian retired from teaching to enjoy hobbies including walking, exercising, playing board games, reading, playing the piano, computers and photography.
Brian was preceded in death by his mother and father. He is survived by his brother Dan, his sisters Pam and Susan, three nieces and five nephews, and several grandnieces and grandnephews.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Brian Easton Memorial Scholarship administered by the Los Alamos Public Schools Foundation. Tax-deductible donations can be made at lapsfoundation.com/donate or by mailing a check to LAPS Foundation, 1010 Central Avenue, Los Alamos, NM, 87544. Please note “Easton Scholarship” on donations. To leave a message for Brian’s family, please visit riverafamilyfuneralhome.com.
A Celebration of Life will be held June 27, 2026, 1-4 pm, at the Unitarian Church of Los Alamos, 1738 North Sage Loop, Los Alamos, NM, 87544. Please RSVP to Pam (Brian’s sister) by June 20, 2026, at chekm8@cox.net.
