Billy Joe Bryan

He married Donna Ilene Couchman on February 22, 1950. She always said that she married him on George Washington’s birthday so he would remember their anniversary. Dad still forgot. To their union were born Nancy Jean Bryan Kelly (Ron), James Richard Bryan (deceased) and Donovan Duane Bryan (Gail), and Susan Elaine Bryan Borcherding.

Billy was known as Bill or B.J. to his friends and during his working years. Billy held some enjoyable jobs growing up. He began working for Rock Island Railroad in the late 1940s. While working in Iowa, he met Donna, while she was working at Al’s Café. They were married and in February 1951, their first child, Nancy Jean, was born. She was followed by James (Jimmy), Donovan and then, Susan. After an injury in 1963, Bill retired from the railroad and moved his family to Irving, Texas where he opened a Chicken Delight. After a few years, he worked in air-conditioning. He then decided to learn electrical work, and he became a Master Electrician. He also became a Mason in the mid 1970s. He retired several times, but always needed to stay busy. He became a consultant for Union Carbide before finally retiring for good. In early 1990 they moved to Grand Prairie, where he enjoyed swimming, gardening and a bit of woodworking. Dad made friends easily, everywhere he went. Whether it was his neighbors or at the Masonic Lodge.

Billy is preceded in death by his wife of 71 years, Donna, his parents, one sister and three brothers.

Billy leaves to cherish his memory three children; his sister, Betty; his brother, Paul; seven grandchildren; several great grandchildren; and several great great grandchildren, with one on the way; as well as many other family members and friends. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

A Visitation for Billy will be held Wednesday, November 29, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Grand Prairie Funeral Home, 733 Dalworth Street, Grand Prairie, TX 75050, followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:00 PM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.grandprairiefh.com for the Bryan family.