Lon Neil Bryant
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Lon's obituary
A spark in his eye, an infectious grin, exuding strength and kindness simultaneously, Lon Neil Bryant passed peacefully on January 28th, 2023.
Born March 14th, 1931 to Sally Murphy and Lon H. Bryant in Aberdeen, WA. Growing up Lon was big brother to Jerome (Jerry) Bryant and two step-brothers Lee Curtis and Robert (Bob) Curtis.
At age 19, Lon enlisted in the Navy during the Korean War. Initially trained in the use and care of weapons he would find his niche as a journalist. Lon was sent to journalism school responsible for setting up the libraries and writing the ship's paper. He was lucky to be chosen to travel on the submarine tender that accompanied the Nautilus on their historic voyage to the North Pole. He was responsible for the public news release of this great event. He didn't just write, Lon once saved a sailor's life by getting him out of a crashing airplane as it was landing on the carrier's deck. Discharged in 1954, he was encouraged by a superior officer to go to law school choosing the University of Oregon school of law.
While attending University of Oregon he found himself struggling to pass History class, Lon decided to reach out to a straight "A" student; Shirley Wright, to be a study partner. Was it her passion for education, impeccable grades, or the fact she was a pretty, petite, brunette that caught his eye? We'll never know.... After a two year courtship they married in 1956, raising three children, Lynda, Scott and Jennifer.
Shirley graduated from University of Oregon Phi Betta Kappa, she was an invaluable influence in Lon's law practice, lending her talents in finance by maintaining the firms bookkeeping. Also an active real estate broker, together they invested in several properties around the Portland area. From office buildings to houses in disrepair their goal of rejuvenating the community was always paramount. With their busy lifestyles they always managed to put family first. Lynda would also join Lon's law practice in High School, first as a summer job then becoming his trusted legal secretary until his retirement. Lynda was known for her quick wit, keeping the staff entertained with her far-side comics and sarcastic humor. Sadly, Lynda passed in 2018.
A true Renaissance man, Lon was an avid outdoorsman, expert marksman, fisherman, master gardener as well as a voracious reader. Lon and Shirley's passions knew no limits; whether it be drop lifted into the remote Canadian wilderness, sight seeing in Europe or relaxing in Mexico and the Caribbean with lifelong friends or family. Their love for family extended to several nieces, nephews', grandchildren and great grandchildren, making the Bryant home a hub for many memorable gatherings.
Lon may have been a lawyer by trade but was a true poet at heart, whether giving sound counsel or an encouraging word, he will be sorely missed.
"The best portion of a good man's life: his little, nameless unremembered acts of kindness and love."
- William Wordsworth.
Lon was preceded in death by Scott Bryant and Lynda Bryant Lauderdale. Survived by his wife Shirley Bryant, Daughter Jennifer Bryant and grandsons' Brady Lauderdale, William Bryant Crowe, great grandchildren Brayden Lauderdale and Emmalyn VanNess.
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