William "Bill" Paul Bryan III

Bill was born on February 4, 1959, to William Paul Bryan Jr. and Frances Bryan Davis in Baton Rouge and grew up with deep Louisiana roots. He was a graduate of Broadmoor High School and LSU. He later earned a Juris Doctor from Southern University Law Center.

He had a long and varied professional career, beginning in television before moving into communications, government, and eventually law. He spent many years as an attorney and consultant, working in areas including election law, communications, emergency management, tourism, and governmental relations.

If there was one thing Bill was known for, it was people. He seemed to know everyone and if he didn't know you when he walked into a room, there was a good chance he would before he left. He had a natural ability to strike up conversations, make connections, and remember people. His circle of friends seemed to stretch everywhere, from his Wednesday’s group to his Saturday morning coffee club.

His interest in Louisiana and public affairs extended beyond his professional life. Bill helped start the Independent Party of Louisiana and remained deeply interested in government, public service, and the political process. He was also involved in organizations throughout the Baton Rouge community, including the Baton Rouge Blues Festival and Foundation, the Greater Baton Rouge American Italian Association, the Grandsons of Italy, the Baton Rouge Press Club and the City Club.

But beyond his professional accomplishments and community involvement, Bill's greatest legacy was the people he loved. He was a proud father to his daughters, Jennifer Bryan and Alison Hargroder and her husband, Ty; and a devoted Papa to his grandchildren, Savannah and Austin. He is also survived by his mother, Frances Bryan Davis; his brother, Glen F. Bryan and his wife, Suzy; and his two nieces, Krista Hendrix and Kaylee Bryan. He was preceded in death by his father, William Paul Bryan Jr.

Bill will be remembered for his love of family, his pride in his Italian heritage, his outgoing personality, and his remarkable ability to make a connection with just about anyone. He had a larger-than-life presence and a way of making people feel like they had known him forever.

Our dad ended every call the same way: “I love you! I’ll talk to you later!” Those familiar words are now a fitting farewell from a man whose love and presence will remain with us always.

A memorial service and celebration of Bill's life will be held at Rabenhorst Funeral Home on Government Street on Sunday, September 27, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.