Grover Cleveland Bryan, a native of Charleston, Tennessee became a prominent real estate businessman during Orlando’s years of dynamic growth. He was known for his optimistic outlook on life, humorous disposition and his deep love for family and friends.
He died at home on September 15, 2010, at the age of 91.
Grover Bryan wore many hats. He flew “The Hump” between India and China, during WWII and ultimately retired from the US Air Force Reserves as a Colonel. In business, his activities focused upon building a successful, Orlando-based, real estate and insurance firm. Simultaneously, he took leadership roles in a myriad of civic organizations spanning three decades. Highlights include serving on the boards and as President or Chairman of the Greater Orlando Chamber of Commerce, The Boy Scouts of America, Orlando Utilities Commission, The Country Club of Orlando, Orange Memorial Hospital (ORMC) and the City of Orlando Municipal Planning Board.
The center of his life was his family. He and his wife of 46 years, Virginia Collins Bryan, met and married in Umatilla, Florida in 1947. After moving to Orlando in 1949, they had four children: Paul, Robert, Becky and David. Virginia Bryan died in 1993. He married Ann Van deCarr Rosenburg in 1996. In addition to Ann, he is survived by his four children, fourteen adored grandchildren and three wonderful great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be 11:00 AM, Saturday September 18, 2010 St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 2499 North Westmoreland Drive, Orlando, FL 32804
In lieu of flowers, please make gifts to St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Mr. Bryan’s memory.
We will miss Grover and his numerous contributions to the community. He was an icon in the real estate industry and highly respected by all who ever met him.
I am speaking for several of us who worked with Grover in the past (early 70's). Myself, Karl Riesterer & Sonja Griffin. He was a wonderful person to work with and we did enjoy a trip to Mexico with Grover & Ginny that we will never forget. God bless you all.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
The Saunders Family
Barbara Johnson
Terry and Roxanne Johnson
Bruce and I were so sad to learn that your dear, sweet Dad has quietly passed away. Unfortunately, we leave in a few minutes to go out of town for the weekend so we will be unable to attend the service. How we regret that.
What a remarkable man Mr. Bryan was and I know you will all miss him terribly. It's especially difficult when both parents are gone but you are so fortunate to have each other! What a legacy Mr. Bryan gave his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren! It makes me especially sad to see another of the "great ones" in the neighborhood leave us. Mr. and Mrs. Bryan were dear friends of the Browns and we shared lots of wonderful memories over the years! Your Dad was always so kind to everyone and I admired how straight and tall he always stood! I can only imagine the reunion of Ginny and Grover in heaven as they celebrate together with Jesus! May God comfort you all, bless you with loving memories and give you peace.
With Love and sympathy,
SuSu and Bruce