In Loving Memory of Michael Sanford Bryan

"Big Mike"

February 5, 1947 — March 2, 2026

Michael S. Bryan, 79, of Garland, Texas—affectionately known to all as "Big Mike"—passed away peacefully on March 2nd, 2026 surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Troy, Alabama on February 5th, 1947, Mike was a Texas resident since childhood. He was a man of immense discipline and warmth whose life was defined by distinguished service and a deep, rooted love for his family.

Five Decades of Distinguished Service

Mike's commitment to his country began with almost four years of service in the U.S. Navy. He then transitioned to the U.S. Air Force, launching a remarkable career in the Military Airlift Command (MAC). A true expert in his field, Mike served as a skilled Flight Engineer and Flight Instructor for the legendary C-141 Starlifter. His technical mastery was further recognized in his role as a Flight Examiner Technician, a position he held for six years, and as an Aircrew Instructor.

Earlier in his career, he contributed to the nation's defense as an Aircraft Maintenance Technician. While his dedication saw him through some of the nation's most significant conflicts, his records proudly reflect his service during the Vietnam War—where he earned the Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Star—and the First Gulf War, recognized by the Southwest Asia Service Medal.

Mike's excellence was honored multiple times, notably receiving the Air Force Commendation Medal with three Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, signifying four separate acts of distinction. He was also a graduate of the Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) Academy and the USAF Senior Non-Commissioned Officer (SNCO) Academy, which sharpened the leadership skills he would use to mentor others for decades. He proudly retired as a Master Sergeant (MSgt), with his final duty assignment at Altus Air Force Base with the 57th Military Airlift Squadron.

Following his honorable retirement from the Air Force, Mike pursued a second career in public safety by joining the Dallas County Sheriff's Office. While serving, he completed his Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice and rose through the ranks to retire as a Lieutenant. He supervised the 3rd shift of officers at the Lew Sterrett Justice Center, where he was known for his steady, fair, and disciplined approach. Mike's influence went far beyond his daily rounds; he was a mentor who developed programs and training for service in leadership, ensuring that his standards of excellence would continue long after his retirement. Between the skies and the halls of Lew Sterrett, Mike gave five decades of his life to the protection and professional growth of others.

A Devoted Family Man

Mike was a devoted and proud father to Lynn, Robert, and Jennifer. He raised all three as his children equally, and the bond he shared with them was unconditional. In 1996, Mike married the love of his life, Holly Bryan, and they built a life together defined by shared love and deep companionship. While family life had its complex periods, his devotion to his children and grandchildren remained an immovable foundation.

Mike found joy in the simple things: fishing, hunting, reading, barbecuing for friends, and carpentry. He cherished moments of quiet—sitting on the porch to listen to the rain or enjoying a cigar.

The Architecture of a Legacy

There is a profound truth that a parent is like a tree, rooted deeper than what the eyes can see. While we prepare to return Mike's physical presence to the earth, the life he poured into us continues to bloom. Every lesson he taught, every sacrifice he made, and every moment he pushed through his own struggles became seeds. As a man who spent his life teaching others how to lead, he knew that seeds don't disappear when the gardener is gone; they grow and unfold into the "shade and shelter" we recognize today. His spirit now lives in the very architecture of who we are—in our resilience, our integrity, and our capacity to protect those we love.

He is survived by:

● His beloved wife, Holly Bryan.

● His brother, Andrew Thomas Bryan.

● His children: Lynn Kornmann, Jennifer Rosas, and Robert Griffith.

● His grandchildren: Kira Russom, Charles and Michael Rushin, Braxton and MaKenley Griffith, Brandon and Breanna Cannon, Joe Blake Rosas, Bethany and Destiny Rosas.

● Numerous extended family members.

Service Information:

● March 26th, 2026

● Viewing, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

● Funeral service, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

North Dallas Funeral Home, 2710 Valley View Ln, Farmers Branch, TX 75234.

Military Honors and burial will be rendered at 1:30 PM at DFW National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75211.

Acknowledgments

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at Merit Hospice for their compassionate care. To the Pallbearers and Military Guard: thank you for standing as Mike's final guard as he completes his journey.