William Bryson Obituary

BRYSON, William ("Bill")

William (Bill) Bryson, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2017 at the age of 70. Bill was born in Evanston, IL and moved to California as a young boy. Bill was a gifted musician, singer and songwriter. He enjoyed a rich career playing, performing and recording the music he loved, travelling the world and leaving a legacy to be proud of. He is preceded in death by his brother Scott Bryson, mother Elizabeth Bryson and father George William Bryson. He is survived by his wife of 40 years Annie Bryson, sister Barbara Cook, brother-in-law Glenn Cook, nieces Carrie Buckley and Laura O'Brien and nephew Michael Cook as well as his grand-nieces and nephews Irene, Lily, Carter, Mollie, Gavin and Fin. Private services to be held with a public memorial to be announced later. Cabot & Sons, Pasadena Directors.

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Published by Pasadena Star-News on May 7, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for William Bryson

Sponsored by Pasadena Star-News.

11 Entries

Connie Carol Birse

October 6, 2020

Bill was always the Gentleman, sweet & kind when we visited. His smile never wavered, his eyes sparkled. He made this Carolina Gal not so homesick in So CA. Heaven shines brighter with you there Bill.

Laura McDonald

August 31, 2018

There were so many great conversations I had with Bill, my favorite being when I said "I don't 'understand' Jazz" (meaning the format). He told me "That's kind, most people just say they don't like it. You're not suppose to 'understand' Jazz. It just 'is', you're suppose to let it emote, 'let it be'" I responded "OH! You mean like a woman!". He gave me an odd look and asked what I meant. I said "Well, men are always trying to figure out women and they never will. They should just appreciate them. So I should just relax and enjoy Jazz". He looked like a 'LIGHT BULB' had just gone off and said "Boy, I wish I'd heard that years ago!". Such a kind and loving man. Very gifted, just a great guy. I miss our conversations, he was as wise as he was talented.

Brinda Lewis

February 24, 2018

You will be missed,I think of you often. My dad and I both loved your great personality and your music. Say hello to my dad ..til we meet again. May God Bless you.

Sandy Bryson Gohlich

November 8, 2017

I recently learned of Bill's passing and am so sorry to hear this very sad news. My heartfelt condolences to his wife and family. I missed out on Bill's early years of performing, but was fortunate to discover him several years ago at the Coffee Gallery. Since then I have had the pleasure of seeing him perform many times. The first time I saw him he struck me as a man who truly loved what he was doing. He exuded joy and camaraderie with that big smile of his. When he was introduced I felt an instant kinship with him, since my great-grandfather's name was the same as his. One time during the break at Vincenzo's I introduced myself to him and told him my last name was also Bryson, and that we were probably distant cousins. When he went back on stage he announced that there was another Bryson in the house and pointed in my direction. After that, whenever I saw him I'd greet him with "Hey, Cousin Bill!". He will be greatly missed as a talented musician and singer, and as genuinely nice man. RIP, Cousin Bill.

October 8, 2017

Our sympathy to the family Bill. Thank you for sharing him with all of us when he was on stage. God bless you always...Bill & Cheryl

Penny Primo

September 24, 2017

Hi, first, I offer condolences to Bill's wife and family. My name is Penny and my sister Patty Burrows recently passed and as I am going through her keepsakes Im finding a few memories of Bill. I remember Bill as a very nice person I was happy my older sister brought into our lives albeit for just a short while. I know my sister thought highly of him as did we all. This is all Ive found so far and will share more if I find anything else. All the best to you and yours, Penny. ps I see now this didnt photo well, it says "California State College Los Angeles - Bill Bryson Audiovisual Technician" its a small card in a velum sleeve. Im happy to send it to you if you send me an email, however have patience as I rarely view the account, but eventually will.

Scott Paton

September 12, 2017

Months after his passing, I only learned of Bill Bryson's death a few days ago. I will be seeing his former bandmates Chris, Herb and John in a couple of weeks and I had hoped that Bill would be part of the line-up on stage. I was devastated to discover that he had passed. He was not only an exceptional musician, but a tremendous guy without a hint of pretense. Among the dozens of time I saw him onstage, I never saw him without a great big smile plastered across his face. He embodied the joy of making music with friends and talented colleagues. I wish I had known him better as every encounter we ever had left me thinking he was just the nicest damn guy ever. My sympathies to his wife, family and friends, and I will always think of him when I see his bandmates onstage.

May 30, 2017

Bill was one of a kind. I had the pleasure of working with him in various groups for over 40 years. A gifted musician, singer and songwriter, he added much to the world of music. You have a warm place in the sun, my brother.

Herb Pedersen

Jackie Budell

May 29, 2017

The world has lost an extraordinary talent. Beyond Bill's musical talent, he was a very kind and sincere man who I came to call friend during all those Desert Rose Band dates on the road where we would catch up with each other, so many years ago now. I was always humbled that he chose to remember me from show to show, and blessed that I had a chance to see and hear him perform again just a few years ago at a DRB reunion show. I left the concert promotion business, but his music never left my heart! Bill will be sadly missed by so many friends and fans, but very fondly remembered. My sincerest condolences to Annie -- may the happy and loving memories that live in your heart ease your sadness in the days ahead.

Stephen Ehret

May 22, 2017

I went to La Salle High School with Bill and always considered him one of the most talented, unique and genuine people I've known. My heart goes out to Bill's family and hope they'll let us know, through the La Salle Alumni Association, about any memorial service.

Mike Fleming

May 7, 2017

Thanks for all the years of music and friendship. I was listening to your music before I had the privilege of meeting you. Sally and I always looked forward to visiting with you on the road with DRB and other groups. Rest In Peace my friend. And to Annie, God bless you dear.

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