Dennis R. Bryant

Dennis R. Bryant was called home to the Lord with his family who loved and cared for him until his last breath by his side in the early morning hours of Sunday, August 18th following a brief illness. He was born in Bartow, Florida on September 9, 1952, to Robert E. Bryant and Ruth Myrina Bryant (nee Mills) and was a lifelong resident of Lakeland. He was a proud Red Devil, graduating from Kathleen Senior High School in 1971. Dennis was also the owner of B & B Auto Body Works, carrying the legacy of the business his own father started. Dennis was a beloved father to his two children. Whether he was mixing the perfect shade of baby blue to then paint his daughter’s entire dance class jazz shoes for their recital to “Blue Suede Shoes” or buckling his daughter’s favorite bear that was once his own to the back of his motorcycle for a Saturday morning trip to fly kites he always made sure you knew you were loved. Dennis was an avid deep-sea fisherman which was a passion he shared with his son and friends. No doubt he is headed out on his Grady White on a perfectly clear day with the waves rippling as the water changes from deep blue to green. He is inevitably chewing the butt of a cigarette, clear minded without the burden life bestowed upon him. He will be waiting on the other side for all of his fishing buddies. Dennis was a member of the Kathleen Masonic Lodge and was an active participant in many community organizations that fostered youth development be it sports teams, 4H, FFA, or Central Florida Youth In Agriculture. He enjoyed classic rock and could belt tunes from all the greats be it ZZ Top, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Eric Clapton, The Doobie Brothers, or Jimmy Buffet (albeit slightly off key). He loved anything if it could go fast, be it a motorcycle, car, boat, or even a horse. All who knew him will remember his infectious smile and his love of a good time. He is survived by his unfailingly devoted wife of 46 years, Elaine, two adult children Jason and Heather, daughter-in-law Kacie, and a granddaughter Ansley. He was loved more than words could ever convey, and he will be deeply missed by everyone whose lives he touched. In lieu of flowers Dennis would appreciate donations being sent to Central Florida Youth In Agriculture (CFYIA), PO Box 2672, Lakeland, FL 33806. A graveside service is planned for 10:00 am Saturday, August 24th at Oak Hill Burial Park. A celebration of life will be planned for a future date.

Dennis R. Bryant

September 9, 1952 - August 18, 2024