It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Lawrence W. Bryan, who departed this world peacefully on March 3, 2026, at the Aviata of Countryside in Palm Harbor, Florida. Born on July 4, 1932, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, Lawrence lived a life full of love, service, and dedication, touching the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him. Lawrence was the beloved son of Lawrence J. and Elizabeth (Flynn) Bryan.
He was predeceased by his cherished wife and soulmate, Carol J. Bryan. Together, Lawrence and Carol shared an extraordinary 65 years of marriage, having wed on September 28, 1951, in Winchester, Virginia. Their union was a testament to enduring love and partnership.
A proud and dedicated U.S. Army veteran, Lawrence served as a Tank Commander during the Korean War. His military service was among his proudest achievements, marking the beginning of a life characterized by leadership and service. Upon returning home, he embarked on a successful career as a Senior Sales Executive at Xerox Corp., where he worked for 30 years in both Pittsburgh, PA, and Tampa, FL. His career was distinguished by multiple President’s Club Awards, which took him to exotic locations such as Hawaii, Munich, Bermuda, and Jamaica. Lawrence was also recognized for his work as an electrician, a steelworker at Bethlehem Steel, and as a car salesman in Johnstown, PA. A man of varied interests, Lawrence was a 33rd Degree Mason with Hillsborough Lodge No. 25 in Tampa, FL, and an active member of the Shriner’s Greeters Group. He was an avid sports enthusiast, relishing in golf, football, and hockey, and he was especially fond of the Steelers, Bucs, Penguins, Lightning, and Pirates. His love for golf was highlighted by achieving two hole-in-ones at Northdale Golf Club in Tampa, FL. Lawrence was also known for his skills as a bowler, a testament to his competitive spirit and zest for life.
Lawrence leaves behind a loving family who will continue to cherish his memory: his son Lawrence T. Bryan and wife Debra, and his daughter Elizabeth Bryan Rheinhart and husband Mark. He was a proud grandfather to Adriana Bryan, Dr. Brittney Rheinhart, and Alex Rheinhart, and a doting great-grandfather to Delia Bryan. His family will forever hold him in their hearts, guided by the values and faith he instilled in them, always being guided by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
In honor of Lawrence’s legacy, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, a cause close to his heart. Contributions can be made through the following link: www.stjude.org. As we bid farewell to Lawrence, we celebrate a life marked by love, achievement, and unwavering faith. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his spirit will continue to guide us, just as he was always guided by his steadfast faith. Rest in peace, dear Lawrence. You will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
A Military graveside service will be held at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL. at a date to be determined.
