Lanier was born and raised in Charlotte, NC.   After graduating from West Charlotte High School, he pursued degree from Brevard College. Lanier was a manufacturer’s representative for textiles before joining his family’s business, Custom Security.   Lanier serves on the board of Charlotte Green, a non-profit his mother and friends founded in 1991 to assist and beautify inner city neighborhoods in the way of community gardening.   Lanier and his wife Lesley have a son George and daughter Betty.

Lanier and Brick McDermott became great friends at West Charlotte High School, then went on to be roommates in college and again post-college.   Fast forward to weddings, karaoke performances, welcoming each other’s children at the hospital, family trips, and cheering on our children’s teams.   The Shull’s are beyond grateful for the McDermott family, their steadfast friendship, joie de vivre, and showing us all the power and importance of simply showing up.   Bryant’s infectious smile, big heart, and love for life graced us all.  Through Live Like Bryant his memory and impact will forever carry on.

Lanier is proud to be Bryant’s godfather.