Donald Bryan Sr

DONALD BRYAN, Sr., 78 LAKELAND - After fighting the good fight, Donald Bryan, Sr. (78 years old) finished his race (2 Timothy 4:7) here on earth April 28, 2015, as God called him to his eternal home. For nine years he courageously battled cancer. Finally, after much prayer he made the choice to not pursue any other treatments and to spend his last weeks at home where friends could visit and family could lovingly care for him. Don was born on November 7, 1936, in Lakeland, FL, to A.M. 'Chuck' and Jewel Bryan. His parents were farmers so he learned the value of hard work at a young age. For 37.5 years he worked for Publix Supermarkets as a truck driver. Daddy loved life! He loved to travel, garden and spend time at his home in Bryson City, NC. He worked hard, cared for his family, stayed involved in church and continued to serve others for all his days. He was a giver. Lots of people know our father and call him friend. Many lives were impacted along the way as we shared Daddy's journey with cancer. Even towards the end of his life he was thinking of others. 'Don was very loving and generous man. We so enjoyed traveling, spending time in the mountains and being a part of our kid's lives. He loved people and fought a good fight to the end. In a few months we would have celebrated our 55th wedding anniversary. Love you forever!' -His wife, Shirley 'My best friend and father has left this earthly life for his new home in heaven. What he has left behind is a legacy to his life lived for Christ. I am thankful that I got to live and learn from him. One of the things I have learned is how to live life and enjoy our time here. He taught me to keep my priorities straight and everything else will fall in place. Because of his influence and character, I have become who I am today. He always put Christ first, then others and then himself. Even till the end he was more concerned about others than himself. For this, I am grateful. Dad, I love you and will see you in heaven.' -His son, Doug 'There are so many things I could share about my daddy, but I think the last nine years of his life will be most impactful. I watched him endure numerous treatments, visits to the doctor and test after test without complaining - Optimist. He cried when he shared his story and when a new friend, Renee, came to know Christ as her Savior because he was in the hospital - Loved people. I saw him continue to walk when he was in severe pain so he could go to church - Strong faith. He continued to drive until he was no longer able - Determined (or stubborn!). My Daddy always made sure my Mom was taken care of and loved her dearly - Good husband. My father was not afraid to die. He told me that 'he made peace with God a long time ago.' Daddy's faith was built upon the solid rock of Jesus Christ and his courage, strength and endurance came from Christ alone. I love my Daddy and already miss him. I praise God that one day I will see him again and we will spend eternity worshipping Jesus. His daughter, Kathy 'I remember Dad as a quiet man who always loved God, worked hard and taught us to enjoy vacation time with friends and family. He has left a legacy of God first, be a man of your word, help others, and live a life that is a Godly example. We will miss you dad, but so happy you are free from pain.' His daughter, Lori His grandsons said they admired their Grandpa's work ethic and love for people. Our prayers are answered. His long (9 year) journey with cancer is finally over. God beat cancer! Praise God he now has a body free of pain and disease. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Shirley, a son Doug (Karen) Bryan, daughters Kathy (Chris) Medlin and Lori Bryan; grandsons, David and Jason; a sister, Linda (George) McQuaig. Please join us in celebrating our father's life as we give God glory for all He did in and through him. His Celebration of Life will be held May 2 at 11:00 am at Kathleen Baptist Church followed by lunch for family and friends in the fellowship hall. Graveside service will be held at Socrum Cemetery at 2:30 pm. In lieu of flowers and in honor of our father we ask that you make a donation to the building fund at Victory Baptist Church. Gifts should be mailed to P.O. Box 1027, Bryson City, NC, 28713.

Donald Bryan Sr

November 7, 1936 - April 28, 2015