Brian Hansel Aby

Brian Hansel Aby, born in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Hulette Fuqua Aby Jr. and Jane Heverly Halpine, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 87. While Brian accomplished much in his life, his proudest legacy was the family he built with his wife, Carol. For over 60 years, their marriage was a partnership of deep love and loyalty, and his children and grandchildren were his greatest source of joy.

A graduate of the University of Tulsa and the University of Oklahoma, Brian served in the U.S. Air Force Reserve and later taught economics at Sam Houston State College.

As a testament to his beliefs in justice and equality, he helped desegregate a local cafe during a “sit-in” and was consequently detained by Huntsville authorities. While his activism led to the eviction of Brian and his young family from their apartment, it also displayed the integrity he would be known for throughout his life. Through this experience he was introduced to lifelong friends who also supported the Civil Rights Movement.

He worked as an economist at the U.S. Department of Commerce in Washington, D.C., before relocating to Arizona in 1973. He served as Economic Development Director for the City of Phoenix, where his work helped shape the city’s growth during a pivotal time. Later, as a founding partner of Sunregion Associates, he continued to assist local governments across the state with smart, thoughtful development initiatives.

Brian was a lifelong fan of the Oklahoma Sooners and a devoted supporter of his grandchildren’s sports teams. As a proud Democrat, he volunteered his time by serving as chairman of his district and spent countless hours organizing volunteers for canvassing and phone banking for the party in Maricopa County. He also enjoyed socializing with dear friends at favorite spots like Alexi’s Grille and Duck and Decanter. He was known by many for his quick wit, strong convictions, and dedication to doing things right.

He is survived by his wife, Carol; their children, Jennifer and her husband, Greg, and Brian Jr. and his wife, Claudia; his siblings, Anne and Steve; along with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Phoenix, Arizona on Monday, June 2, 2025 at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to Hospice of the Valley.