Brian Preston Satterfield I, of Sewell, NJ, passed away on July 3, 2023, at the age of 49. Brian is survived by his wife Dawn (Riggio); his children, Alfonso ”AJ” (Brittany & grandson Rocco), Juliana, and Emily; his mother in law, Karen Kelly-Mandl (Gary Birnhak); his father in law, Jerry Riggio (Bonnie); his brothers in law, Jerry Riggio (Melissa, niece Gioia & nephew Romeo) and Dominick Riggio; along with many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles. Brian was predeceased by his youngest son, their little angel, “Bri Bri”.
Born December 24, 1973, Brian grew up on Chestnut Ridge (aka “The Ridge”) in Glassboro, New Jersey. He built up a tremendous group of friends during his many years in youth sports. His early band of brothers included Carmen, Dion, Raymond, Marco, Scott, TJ, Derek, Robbie, and Sammy. His ability to cultivate meaningful friendships continued into his later years as his circle grew even larger to include James, Fab, Kevin, John, and Troy. Once you were Brian’s friend, it was forever.
Brian was a 1992 graduate of Glassboro High School and he pursued a career in cosmetology after high school. It was while working at Techniques that he met his beloved wife, Dawn Riggio. Their common bond started with hairdressing, but over time their friendship and love became the foundation for their 25 years of marriage. Brian and Dawn faced many challenges during their marriage, but each one only made them stronger and more committed to one another.
Whether working at Scott’s Barber Shop in Clayton or coaching & announcing baseball for Glassboro Little League, Brian had the gift of laughter and always looked to share that with others. Brian loved music and he had an eclectic library of songs that he played on repeat, from R&B to reggae, hip hop, to classic rock. His ability to sing karaoke–on demand–to any song was unparalleled. When “BSatt” took the mic, you knew a good time was about to happen. Brian could also easily pacify any angry person with his comedic delivery of one-liners. No one could ever say a bad word about Brian.
As a father, he had an unwavering dedication to his children. His love for each of them was evident in his actions, words, and support. Brian would discuss the important issues, such as the Murphy bed with AJ, and all of the possibilities of their future endeavors. He also adored his grandson Rocco and was so proud to be his “Pops”. Whether Brian was with his family visiting Disney, attending Em’s cheer competitions, watching a Netflix series with Jules, or walking each April for the Gift of Life in honor of BriBri, he just wanted to be with his kids. What is equally important was that Brian was a mentor to all his best friends’ children. He showed up for their athletic events, counseled them, and was present for many of their most important moments. Brian was the true “Uncle of Glassboro.”
There are simply no words that can fully explain the grief and shock that his sudden passing has brought to his family and friends. He truly was the best of all of us – including his knowledge of world events, his swagger, those Mountain Dew big gulps, his endless humor, quick wit, and his smooth dance moves. We will miss you Brian.
Services will be open to family and friends on Tuesday, July 11, 2023. A two hour viewing will begin at 9:00 AM at Egizi Funeral Home, 119 Ganttown Road, Turnersville, NJ 08012. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, followed by the burial at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, 240 Lower Landing Rd, Blackwood, NJ 08012. Brian would want his services to be a real celebration and because of his love for sports please honor your favorite Philly sports team on Tuesday: no suits. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions to the Brian Satterfield go fund me account: https://www.gofundme.com/f/brian-satterfield-support-for-bsatt.