Bryan R. Garner, 49, of Edwardsville, IL, born on May 13, 1976, passed away on June 20, 2025, at St. Louis University Hospital, in St. Louis, MO.
Bryan was a professor at The Ohio State University, Director of Dissemination & Implementation Science, Division of General Internal Medicine and Director of Dissemination & Implementation Research, The Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking (CATALYST).
Dr. Garner was a proud graduate of Texas Christian University where he received his PhD in Experimental Psychology. He devoted his life’s work to improving evidence-based practices within real-world settings and underserved populations, particularly individuals affected by substance use disorders and HIV. His numerous accomplishments, innovative studies, and contributions to his field of research will have a lasting and meaningful impact for generations to come.
Bryan approached life with boundless energy and a playful competitive spirit. He had a knack for turning ordinary moments into games, whether inventing his own rules for "horse" or rallying friends into impromptu challenges. His love for games was only rivaled by his talent for bringing people together and making everyone feel like part of his extended family.
Those who knew Bryan will remember his quick wit, his unforgettable grin, and his infamous "MacGyver fixes”: creative (if occasionally questionable) solutions crafted from whatever was on hand. But more than anything, they’ll remember his generosity, his relentless drive, and the way he made even the simplest moments feel meaningful.
His professional legacy transformed lives, but so did his friendship. Bryan’s absence leaves an irreplaceable void, but his spirit lives on in the laughter, stories, and countless lives he touched.
Bryan is survived by his parents, Charles and Judy (nee Laut) Garner; two children, Ava Garner and Lilah Garner; sister, Beth Desha; and niece Reese Desha.
Memorials may be made to NAMI - National Alliance on Mental Illness. Condolences may be extended to the family online at www.schildknechtfh.com.
A visitation will take place on Monday, June 30, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., at Schildknecht Funeral Home; 301 S. Lincoln Ave., O’Fallon, IL 62269.
A memorial Service will take place on Monday, June 30, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., with Pastor Josh Kinney officiating, at Schildknecht Funeral Home.
A graveside service will immediately follow on Monday, June 30, 2025, at 12:45 p.m., at O’Fallon City Cemetery; 601 N. Oak St., O’Fallon, IL 62269
Arrangements have been entrusted to Schildknecht Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
