BLUFFTON, SOUTH CAROLINA - William Donald Bryant, 58, husband of Vikki Bowyer Bryant, died Tuesday, March 15, 2011, at his home in Palmetto Bluff South Carolina.

Don was born February 8, 1953, in Beckley, West Virginia. He was the son of the late Lawrence Edward Bryant and the late Mary Staples Bryant.

He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Vikki Bowyer Bryant; one son and daughter-in-law, James Robert and Maryclaire Akers; three grandchildren, Katherine Bryant Akers, Ethan Bryant Akers and Harper Bryant Akers; sisters and brothers-in-law, Peggy and George Davis and Paulette and Eddie Wood; brother and sister-in-law, Michael and Kandace Bryant, and several nieces and nephews.

He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Don was a graduate of Beckley College and West Virginia University where he received both undergraduate and advanced degrees. He received academic scholarships to Beckley College, an American Legion Scholarship and WVU scholarships including a Benedum Scholarship. Don completed a 2½ year graduate program in 12 months to receive his master’s degree in social work. He was initially employed as a social worker and grant writer to help the people of West Virginia. Don then owned and operated several successful businesses for 30 years in West Virginia, Virginia, South Carolina and Georgia. He found a great deal of pride and pleasure as a small business owner during which time he helped many customers and associates whom he considered friends. Don loved history, especially the civil war era. He was an avid collector of Civil War memorabilia. He enjoyed spending time on the May River and was grateful for his time in Palmetto Bluff where he was blessed to meet many exceptional friends.

Don was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by his family, friends and pets.

A memorial service will be held at 5 o’clock Sunday afternoon, April 17, 2011, at the chapel at Palmetto Bluff with the reception immediately thereafter.

In lieu of flowers, Don requested donations to The Hilton Head Humane Association – Post Office Box 21790, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 29925 or PALS – Post Office Box 539, Bluffton, South Carolina 29910.