William Sturges Bryan, Sr.

William Sturges Bryan, Sr., affectionately known as "Sturges" by family and friends, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior on July 10, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on December 22, 1939, in Oxford, North Carolina, Sturges was the son of the late Henry Blount Bryan and Lelia Annette Sturges Bryan. Sturges was a 1962 graduate of University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He served in the North Carolina National Guard. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Sue Sample Bryan; his son, James Blount Bryan; and his half-brother, Henry Blount "H.B." Bryan. He is survived by his son, William Sturges "Bill" Bryan, Jr. (Nancy); brother, Charles Walter Bryan (Carol); sister-in-law, Canh Bryan; Marilyn King; and cousin, Suzanne Sturges, who became like a sister after their shared interest in genealogy led them to discover their family connection later in life. He is also survived by extended family members, nieces, nephews, dear friends, and countless others whose lives were touched by his kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith. Sturges devoted 31 years to Security Bank & Trust, retiring as Vice President under the SunTrust organization. While banking was his profession, serving people was his calling. He earned the trust and respect of customers, coworkers, and friends through his integrity, wisdom, and genuine concern for others. His commitment to Rowan County was instrumental in helping secure the transfer of the historic Southern Railway Spencer Shops property to the State of North Carolina, making possible what is now the North Carolina Transportation Museum. As one of its founders and the first President of the North Carolina Transportation Museum Foundation, he spent more than 44 years helping build the Foundation into the organization that continues to support the museum today. His community service also included the Salisbury Jaycees, Historic Salisbury Foundation, Rowan County Investment Grant Program, Meals on Wheels of Rowan County for 18 years, and numerous other civic charitable organizations. Faith was the cornerstone of Sturges' life as a devoted member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church for more than 55 years. He faithfully served in numerous leadership roles, committees, ministries, and acts of quiet service. His Christian faith guided the way he lived, served, and loved others. Together, Sturges and Sue built a life centered on faith, family, service, and adventure. During their 59 years of marriage, they traveled the world, crossing the Atlantic more than 40 times and creating treasured memories and lifelong friendships wherever their journeys took them. They especially treasured the opportunity to share two of those adventures with Bill and Nancy, creating memories their family will always cherish. Sturges also enjoyed hunting and fishing with lifelong friends, sharing stories that would be retold for years to come. Following Sue's passing, God graciously blessed Sturges with the friendship and companionship of Marilyn King, a longtime friend from St. Luke's Episcopal Church. Their relationship later received the Church's blessing as they continued their journey together in faith. Marilyn faithfully walked beside Sturges during his final years, providing loving care and steadfast support that became a blessing to him and his family. More than any title he held or accomplishment he achieved, Sturges will be remembered for the relationships he built and the lives he touched. During his final days, Sturges remained steadfast to his faith that guided his entire life. His family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many physicians, nurses, caregivers, hospice professionals, family members, and friends in Salisbury and Charlotte whose compassion, prayers, and loving support were a blessing throughout his final journey. A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Luke's Episcopal Church at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 1, 2026, with The Rev. Tom Carter officiating. Following cremation, Sturges will be interred at Oakwood Cemetery in Statesville, North Carolina. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Luke's Foundation, 131 W. Council St., Salisbury, NC 28144; All Saints Anglican Church Building Fund, 5328 Hemby Rd., Weddington, NC 28104; or the North Carolina Transportation Museum Foundation, 411 South Salisbury Avenue, Spencer, NC 28159. Summersett Funeral Home is serving the Bryan family. Online condolences may be made at www.summersettfunerahome.com.

William Sturges Bryan, Sr.

December 22, 1939 - July 10, 2026