William McKay Bryan (Billy), of Topsail Beach, formerly of Lumberton, died April 1, 2012 at UNC Hospital. He was born April 10, 1947. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack E. and Esther Williams Bryan. He is survived by his wife, Jane Rusher Bryan; sons Jeffrey Bryan, John Hammett and wife Angie, Joe Hammett, Jeff Hammett and wife Jenny; granddaughters, Kory Hammett, Taylor Hammett, Kendall Hammett, Audrey Hammett, and Gabbie Martin; grandson, Ben Martin; sister, Kathy Bryan Smith and her husband Steward.

He was a graduate of Lumberton High School where he played tackle for the Pirates football team all four of his high school years. He was an outstanding football player having been named to the North Carolina All Conference football team several years and played in the NC East-West Football game. After graduating from Pembroke State University, he taught and coached for many years in the Lumberton City Schools and served on the Lumberton City School Board. Billy served on the Lumberton Rescue Squad for many years. He worked for the NC Department of Probation and Parole. He also worked for West Point Pepperell and Nan Ray Fabrics. Before his retirement he was employed by Family Alternatives in Lumberton.

For many years Billy lived at Topsail Beach, his favorite place in the world. He loved to fish, hunt, and entertain guests. Billy liked nothing better than to spend time with his friends and family. He particularly enjoyed getting together with his hunting club friends. His grandchildren were the light of his life. He will be sorely missed by his multitude of friends and his family.

The family will receive friends at Floyd Mortuary & Crematory in Lumberton on Tuesday, April 3, 2012 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Floyd Memorial Chapel on Wednesday, April 4, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow in Meadowbrook Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make a gift in memory of Billy to the charity of your choice.