Brian T. Hitch

Brian T. Hitch, age 88 and days shy of his 89th birthday, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2026, surrounded by his loving children in Naples, FL. Born in Oxford, England, on April 22, 1937, to Thomas “Fred” Hitch and Dorothy Lloyd Hitch, Brian was the younger brother of Maureen. Due to his mother passing away of tuberculosis when Brian was a young boy, he was raised by his father and step-mother, Margaret (Monro), in Poole, England. Brian was known to be a superb athlete in his youth, excelling in cross country events, sprinting, boxing, and rugby. He graduated from Southampton University in 1959 in the UK with honors with a degree in Chemistry and a minor in Physics, and went on to a successful career with British Petroleum that spanned 39 years with his final position as Chief Administration Officer for BP America, retiring in 1998. During his career he also earned his MBA from University of Virginia. Brian married the lovely Janice Benstead May 20, 1961, at Oakdale Church of England in Poole, Dorset, UK, and they raised three children together. With Janice’s continual support, Brian was able to excel in his career, working in the UK, Canada, Georgia, Texas, and Ohio. Brian enjoyed traveling extensively with Janice, reading, golf, and music. He was a loyal friend to many people throughout his life and will be greatly missed. Brian was well known for being kind and gracious, having a keen intellect and positive outlook on life, and for having a strong work ethic. In retirement these attributes served him well as he served as a board member for Walden Country Club in Aurora, OH, and as President of Bentley Village Foundation in Naples, FL. Brian was also affiliated with Audubon Country Club, Naples, FL, The Cliffs Valley Country Club, Travelers Rest, SC, and was Chair of the American Petroleum Institute IT Committee. Brian was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Maureen Mander, and dear wife, Janice. He is survived by his children, Sarah Hitch, Jonathan (Andrea) Hitch, and Nicola Mueller. He was a devoted and generous grandfather of Ryan (Mina) Mueller, Joshua Mueller, Samuel (Sarah) Mueller, Natalie (Bryan) Szucs, and Graham (Thi) Hitch, and delighted great-grandfather of Madeline Szucs. He also leaves behind several caring nieces and nephews. A celebration of life service will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs, FL, at 2:00 pm on Friday, April 24, 2026. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations may be made to Bentley Village Foundation in Naples, FL. To sign his guest register or to leave online condolences please visit www.shikanyfuneralhome.com Arrangements are being handled by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home Family Owned and Operated Since 1978.

Brian T. Hitch

April 22, 1937 - April 12, 2026