Travis Golladay, longtime procurement director at BrightPet and son of the company's founder, died unexpectedly on September 2, 2025, at age 51, surrounded by his family.
Golladay joined what was then Ohio Pet Foods in 1997, beginning a 25-year career that saw him gradually assume operational and procurement responsibilities from his father, company founder James Golladay. He played an integral role in the company's expansion, including the 2011 acquisition of Blackwood Pet Food and the 2012 purchase of competitor Southern Tier Pet Nutrition.
Born January 23, 1974, in Salem, Ohio, Golladay earned a marketing and advertising degree from Marietta College in 1996. After serving in various roles including general manager, he focused his efforts on procurement before retiring in 2023 to spend more time with his family.
Golladay's professional dedication to serving "furry friends" extended beyond his corporate role into personal advocacy and philanthropy for animal welfare causes. He consistently supported local shelter charities, frequently providing whatever assistance was needed.
Golladay is survived by his wife Nicole Maronen Golladay, whom he married in 2014, son Sean Hennessey, and mother Gloria Williams Golladay, as well as other extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his father James.
The family has requested donations be made to the Columbiana County Humane Society, the Jim Golladay Scholarship Fund at Cardinal Mooney High School, or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in lieu of flowers.
