Frank "Shep" Sheffield Bryson III

Frank Sheffield Bryson III ("Shep")

October 19, 1953 - January 6, 2025

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we share the passing of Frank Sheffield Bryson III - known to everyone simply as Shep - who left us peacefully on January 6, 2025, after a prolonged illness. He was 71 years old.

Born on October 19, 1953, in Savannah, Georgia, Shep was the son of Frank Bryson Jr. and Audrey Gordon Nieva-Woodgate, who later divorced. He was blessed with a second mother when his father remarried Natalia Morse Bryson, whom he dubbed with her delighted consent, "Old Lady." He was preceded in death by his father, mother, stepmother, and a sister.

Shep's life was defined by his immense generosity, welcoming spirit, and true Southern charm that endeared him to everyone he met. His greatest passions were music and cooking - talents he cultivated and shared joyfully throughout his life.

Shep began his career in Savannah, where he worked alongside Chef Gerry Klaskala at the Chart House, honing his skills both in the kitchen and front of house. In 1994, he moved to Atlanta, where he continued his passion for hospitality, taking on roles at several well-known establishments, including serving as chef for Jenifer Hardee at The Downwind at PDK. He would later work at the award-winning THERE Gastropub in Brookhaven, owned by the wonderful Bill Brown, a dear friend and mentor. Shep's talents and warm presence left a lasting mark on colleagues, patrons, and friends wherever he went.

Music, especially the blues, was the soundtrack of Shep's life. A gifted harmonica player, he performed with several Atlanta acts, like the Blue Dude and Rockaholics, among others, and cherished gathering each year for the Chicken Raid Blues Festival, celebrating the community and music he loved so much.

Shep returned to Coastal Carolina to be closer to his family, where he fought his health battles with remarkable resilience and spirit. Those who knew Shep remember his unwavering kindness, infectious laughter, and the genuine warmth he brought to with him.

He leaves behind a legacy of beautiful memories and will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

A graveside service will be held this Friday, April 25, at 11:00 a.m. at Bonaventure Cemetery, Lot 15, in Savannah, Georgia. A celebration of life will also be held in Atlanta this coming October, with details to follow. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Hunger & Hope or The Atlanta Music Project.

Fly with angels Shep!