Obituary of Briana Nicole Warren

WARREN BRIANA

With heavy hearts filled with love, we announce the passing of Briana Nicole Warren(“Brea”), on May 24, 2024, a beloved daughter, mother, sister, and friend. Born on April 12, 1987, in Tucson, Arizona, she was the third of four children. When she was just a baby, her family moved back to Nebraska to be closer to family. They spent several years in Bloomfield, NE, before making Yankton, SD their home when she was three years old.

Throughout her life, Briana faced many hurdles. Some she overcame with greatness and resilience, while others were more challenging. Despite these difficulties, she remained a beacon of joy and laughter for those around her. When we close our eyes and remember her, we see her rolling in the grass with her children, laughing with a full heart, or on the Tilt-a-Whirl at the carnival surrounded by family, laughing so hard she cried. Her contagious laughter brought immense happiness to everyone she met.

Briana possessed a child's heart and spirit. She loved the warmth of the sunshine on her face and gave hugs that could wash away all your worries. Her joyful spirit was infectious, brightening any room she entered. She had a special way of making ordinary moments extraordinary, whether it was through her spontaneous dance parties in the living room or her knack for finding the silver lining in any situation.

However, behind her radiant smile and infectious laughter, Briana faced profound and significant challenges. These struggles, though she met many of them with courage and determination, ultimately took a toll on her. Despite her relentless fight and the support of those who loved her, these challenges proved to be overwhelming, and they tragically ended her life too soon. Her battle with these difficult times does not diminish the love and light she brought into the world; rather, it highlights her strength and the depth of her spirit.

In her light, we can hear her giving advice to fight hard through all the challenges and heartaches that life brings, and to embrace each day as a new beginning. She had a remarkable ability to connect with people of all ages, always making time to listen and offer comfort. Her playful nature made her a favorite among the children in her life, who adored her for her fun-loving spirit and boundless energy. She approached life with a sense of wonder and excitement, finding joy in the simple pleasures and sharing that joy with everyone around her.

She found great purpose in her jobs in retail, where she thrived because of her ability to talk to and connect with anyone. Her friendly demeanor and genuine interest in people made her a natural in this field. However, she found tremendous pride in her work as a bookkeeper—a position that challenged her in all the right ways and allowed her to showcase her skills and dedication.

She leaves behind three incredible children who possess so many qualities of her loveliness. They carry forward her kindness, her infectious laughter, and her boundless love. They are a living testament to her enduring spirit and the love she so generously shared.

She is also survived by her mother and stepfather, siblings and many friends who will forever cherish her memory. Her spirit will live on in the laughter of her children and the hearts of all who knew her.

In remembering “Brea”, we celebrate her life filled with joy, love, and an unyielding spirit. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the same warmth and happiness she brought into this world. The Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home & Crematory, Yankton, SD is assisting with the service details.  Online condolences may be sent at: www.opsahl-kostelfuneralhome.com.  A private family service will be held.