Douglas McCray Bryan

Douglas McCray Bryan, 87, of Bladenboro, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, November 28, 2025. Born on March 17, 1938, in Bladen County to the late Willie Hudson Bryan and Hattie Evers Bryan, Douglas was the third of ten children in a lively household. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Keith Bryan; great-granddaughter, Hannah White; brothers: Shelton Bryan and Ronnie Bryan; sisters: France Sweney, Mildred Carroll, and Norma Cain.

On September 30, 1956, Douglas and Linda went with friends, Barbara and Sydney Dove to Dillon, SC. The story has been told that they were going to just get hot dogs. They just celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary on September 30th.

Douglas had a distinguished career in the food industry, beginning as a butcher at the Red & White store in Bladenboro before transitioning to work as a delivery breadman with Holsum Bread. He later became affectionately known as "The Little Debbie Man,” earning a reputation for his strong work ethic, which had been instilled in him by his parents. His commitment to hard work was a value he upheld throughout his life, teaching it with pride to his three children.

A proud "Papa," Douglas relished the roles of grandfather and great-grandfather. He leaves behind his loving wife of 69 years, Linda B. Bryan of the home; son, Steve Bryan and wife Miriam of Bladenboro; daughter, Pam Bryant and husband Tommy of Bladenboro; brothers: Robert Bryan and Donnie Bryan, both of Bladenboro; sisters: Judy Hiel of Oklahoma and Connie Edwards of Bladenboro; grandchildren: Laura Bryant, Joshua Bryant (Nikki), Tina Lane (Bryan), and Kendra McCarthy (Brendan); great-grandchildren: Hunter White, Emmy Bryant, Hendrix Bryant, June Bryant, Bryanna Barnek, Marley Lane, and Gracie McCarthy.

Known for his strong-willed nature and firm demeanor, Douglas was also a compassionate Christian man, embodying a belief that each day should be lived to its fullest. Memories from his children's high school years highlight his unwavering support; Douglas and Linda rarely missed a game, unless it was Revival week then they were all at church.

In his quieter moments, he loved fishing after retiring, explored hunting briefly, and enjoyed traveling with friends in a camper. His fondness for good food was evident in his regular visits to Dale's Seafood, where he could be found dining several times a week, along with his loyal following of Atlanta Braves games.

Douglas is remembered not only for his work and love of family but also for the special memories he created with them. A particularly cherished memory involved crafting a homemade basketball net from a tomato basket for his grandson, Josh, so he could play when he visited. Douglas cherished the times spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren ensuring that their playful spirit thrived through pillow fights and joyous laughter.

The family will receive friends from 6-8pm on Monday, December 1st at Bladen-Gaskins Funeral Home in Elizabethtown. A funeral service will be held at 1pm on Tuesday, December 2nd at First Baptist Church in Bladenboro. Reverend Joey Cantrell and Reverend Charles Hester will officiate the service. Burial will follow in the Pine Crest Cemetery in Bladenboro.

A special thank you to the nurses and staff of Liberty Hospice for their dedication and service. Also, thank you to Douglas’ many friends and family for the love and support you have shown to the Bryan family during this difficult time.