Lawrence (Larry) Jay Bryant

Husband. Father. Grandpa. The greatest in every way that truly matters.

His love lives through his loving wife Denise Bryant, his children Michele Bauer (Todd), Jennifer Dodani (Deepak), and Jeff Bryant (Ruth), and his grandchildren: Dylan, Cameron, Holden, and Caden (Michele’s children); Evan and Isabella (Jennifer’s children); and Asher and Sabine (Jeff’s children). He is also survived by his brother Ronnie Schwartz (Salina), and their children Sherry, AJ, Hope, and Faith, along with Ronnie’s daughters Laurie and Carrie (Gail), and his nephew Robert. He also leaves behind his sisters-in-law, Irene and Janet Flynn, and his niece, Alessandra Flynn, Janet’s daughter.

Larry and Denise shared 56 years of marriage, lovingly calling each other “Pooh” and “Hon.” Their bond began when she was 11 and he was 13—they were inseparable from the very beginning. Denise would often wait for him on the stoop, they would write messages to each other on fogged windows, and spent countless hours talking with him. These simple, tender moments grew into a lifetime of love, with not a single night passing without them holding each other close. Their love was a powerful example to everyone who knew them.

Loved being a dad to Michele, Jennifer, and Jeff, and he embraced their spouses — Todd, Deepak, and Ruth — not as in-laws but as his own children. He loved inclusively, and that love only grew as the family expanded. He proudly attended every recital, sporting event, and celebration he could — beaming with pride and never hesitating to share the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren with anyone who would listen. But he didn’t just show up — he went above and beyond to make each person feel truly special and give his family unforgettable experiences: vacations across the country, new opportunities, and lifelong memories.

His family will especially miss hearing his unforgettable iconic “Oh Wow!” — his heartfelt reaction to their accomplishments, whether it was getting into a dream college, creating art to comfort a child in the hospital, or achieving a special milestone.

Larry was unique with his playful jokes, and his humor was legendary. Animals adored him. Rocky, Molly and Kady held a special place in his heart. He is now reunited with them.

He was also a bit of a magician — not with cards or coins, but in the way he brought joy through surprise. Unpredictable in the best possible way, he loved keeping the family guessing just long enough to make the reveal unforgettable. Whether it was throwing everyone off track about a trip destination or planning the perfect family gift, he never wanted to spoil the magic.

A talented piano player, Larry’s deep love for music was evident in the songs he shared and composed. Among his creations is the heartfelt composition, "What More Can I Say". Take a moment to listen to this cherished piece .

A lifelong learner, avid reader, and resilient businessman who worked hard and never let anything stand in his way. He left handwritten letters for his wife and children, expressing his love. He reminded them that life is what you make it, and that family is everything. One of his favorite books, The Magic of Thinking Big by Dr. David J. Schwartz, emphasizes you don’t need to be born into wealth or brilliance to achieve happiness and success — you simply need to believe in yourself, think boldly, and act with purpose.

He lived those truths. He inspired the family to be greater, to dream bigger, and to live with the same limitless love he gave to them.

We will love and miss him always.

With all our love, His wife, children, and grandchildren