Donald P. Bryant, Jr.

Our world is feeling the profound loss of a truly remarkable man. Don Bryant left us heartbroken on February 22, 2026. Don was a larger‑than‑life character who made it his mission to connect with everyone he met. He delighted in learning about people, their stories, their families, their dreams—and could always find a way to offer help, support, or a good laugh.
Don was a proud Navy Veteran. He was stationed at Hutchinson Naval Air Base where he met the love of his life Kitty, also enlisted in the Navy.
He retired after 37 years at Carrier in various roles in Syracuse and New York City. The last several years he led the incentive travel program at Carrier and then under his company DBI, Ltd - traveling the world. He loved sharing the memories he collected along the way, the accents, the foods, the characters he met, and the adventures that shaped him. 
Don was endlessly passionate about his family, leaving them with a lifetime of stories, cherished memories, and an impressive catalog of dad jokes.
His neighborhood happy hours became legendary, earning him the honorary and well‑deserved title of “Mayor of Foothill.” He also felt a deep connection with the aides and drivers who cared for him during his time at Brookdale, always taking the time to learn about their lives beyond their work.
Don remained active on Facebook, never missing a chance to comment on the photos and posts shared by his many friends, his kids, and his grandchildren. He was a devoted contributor to a page celebrating his beloved Skunk City neighborhood, where he grew up. He was on his iPhone and iPad right up until the hours before he became ill—ever curious, ever engaged.
And of course… his Manhattans.
Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of 70 years, Kitty. He is also survived by his children, Cheryl (Mike) Brunet and Marty (Jodi) Bryant; his grandchildren Lief (Alice) Brunet, Colby (Joanne) Brunet, Mallory (Ian) Brunet, Tyler (Caroline) Bryant, Rebecca (Grant) Stimmel, and Eli (Mallory) Brunet; and his great‑grandchildren, Cora and Noah Stimmel, Madison Brunet, Otisco Brunet McCaslin, and Warren Brunet.
He also loved his “adopted” kids, Lucy, Chris, Craze, Ace and MF to name but a few..   
Don is also survived by his brother Dick (GeGe) Bryant and Linda (Bill) Schilling and many nieces and nephews.
Per his wishes there will be no calling hours.  If you knew Don, you undoubtedly have a story to tell. So, raise a Manhattan in his honor, share a memory, and celebrate a life well—and fully—lived.
 

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