Donald Eugene Bryant

Donald Eugene Bryant, 73, of Venice, Florida, passed away peacefully in the presence of loved ones on March 30, 2023.

Don was born to Robert Joseph Bryant and Lucille Lillice Taylor in Florence, SC on October 16, 1949. He was raised in Jewett City, CT and graduated from Plainfield High School in Central Village, CT. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as a crew chief on B-52's in Vietnam before settling in eastern Connecticut with the Air National Guard. During his early years he obtained an associate degree and experienced many different fields to include real estate, photography, and radio announcing. He eventually joined Pfizer in Groton, CT working his way into research science and enjoyed a 31-year career.

He had an active life and enjoyed the excitements of hang gliding, snow and water skiing, sailing, fishing, tennis, and RV traveling. Don's life includes many amazing stories. During Vietnam parachuted from damaged aircraft several times into the ocean, spending hours waiting and hoping for rescue; it was said he helped his fellow airman survive these events as well. This altruistic side led him to protect and aid others after the war as a trained EMT. While windsurfing in Griswold, CT he rescued two injured men from a plane that crashed into the lake. One day behind his home in Plainfield, CT he stabilized a young man who fell from his dirt bike during a sudden seizure until the ambulance arrived. These stories and more will be told long after his passing.

Don will also be remembered as a trusted friend who could fix nearly anything. He selflessly helped those around him using his technical skills and calming voice. He shared his blessings and love of the water with family and friends and will be remembered for treating everyone to cherished summer memories on Pachaug Pond in Griswold, CT. A few years after retiring in 2008 he moved to Venice, FL where he continued to share those blessings with his friends and family in gulf coast waters.

Don was predeceased by his parents and brother Robert Chester Bryant. He is survived by his wife, Judith Ann Bryant, sisters Bonita Fissette, Deborah Harper, Brenda Hovland (Douglas), sons Michael Hamilton (Stacey), Gabriel Bryant (Stephanie), and Eric Hamilton (Colleen); daughters Nikki Plante (Justin), and Tory Bryant (Cecilia); and 14 grandchildren. Don was also very close to and will be missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A memorial will be held in Connecticut at a time and place to be determined later with details spread through friends, family, and social media. Don's friends and relatives are encouraged to share their memories of him within the memories & condolences section of this announcement. In lieu of flowers, the family recommends donations be made to Veterans, Inc at https://www.veteransinc.org/; an organization with a cause Don felt strongly about.