Russell A. Bryant

Russell A. Bryant of Monmouth, Maine passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 13, 2014 surrounded by his family. Born July 24, 1935, to Donald Bryant and Beatrice McKenna Bryant (who died during childbirth) in Lewiston, Maine, Russ was initially raised for some years by Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Begin on their farm in Auburn, and then later reunited with his father and his second wife Margaret Kelley Bryant. Russ was married to Elizabeth “Betty” Talarico on June 11, 1960 and they enjoyed 50 years together. They adopted and raised three children: Eric, Catherine, and William. Betty passed away in 2010. During their time together Russ and Betty opened and ran “Ye Olde House”, a gourmet restaurant in Raymond for 10 years, had an antique shop called “The 5 B’s” in Poland, and owned and operated Luiggis Pizzeria in Lewiston for over 25 years. He loved antiques and antique cars. Favorites that he owned included a ’48 Oldsmobile, a ’49 Ford, a ’63 Thunderbird, and a ’65 Mustang—all convertibles. He and Betty enjoyed wheeling and dealing and auctioning as they ran their own antique shop and restored their 1760 historic Cape in Poland to its original condition. Russ was also a football fanatic and the New England Patriots #1 Fan. He began listening to them on the radio in the 60’s as the Boston Patriots and also made it to one of their many Superbowl games. Russ loved people and is remembered as being ever ready to lend a helping hand or create an opportunity for someone. He helped countless people with his generosity and encouragement and had an incredible impact on his community and those around him. He was a shining example of a husband, father, and fellow human being and will be greatly missed by many. He was preceded by his father Donald, mother Beatrice, step-mother Margaret, and brother Donald. He is survived by his three children Eric Bryant and his wife Tina of Hebron, Catherine Bryant of Lewiston, and William Bryant and his wife Elizabeth of Monmouth, 11 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren. Also by his sister Beverly Bryant Derosier and her husband, Joe; brothers Robert and Joel Bryant, and brother Thomas Bryant and his wife Frances.