William A. "Willie" Bryson, a lifetime resident of Massapequa, made the fire department his utmost priority. He was well-known for his commitment and the time he dedicated to the Massapequa Fire Department for almost 50 years. Mr. Bryson died September 1, 2003 at New Island Hospital after a long illness.

Fire Chief Kevin Malone said Bryson, a former fire chief, was devoted to the drill team and that his death is a great loss to the department.

Mr. Bryson and his wife Doris, who married in 1955, enjoyed a busy life. His wife said they traveled to the Caribbean, took skiing trips and attended numerous conventions in cities throughout the country with the fire department. Mr. Bryson was a 48 year resident of Massapequa and he and his wife raised four children in this community.

Mr. Bryson was affiliated with the New York State (Fire Department) Tournament and Junior Tournament Teams. He attended tournaments over the summer, between May and September and enjoyed building racing trucks for Fire Departments all over Long Island. At one time he was a featured guest on The Wide World of Sports, hosted by Jim McKay. His wife recalls how the event "filled him with pride."

In addition to his wife, Doris, Mr. Bryson is survived by his sons, William of Miami Spring, Florida; Robert of Hicksville and Richard of Massapequa. He is survived by his daughter, Janis of Cincinnati, Ohio and his six grandchildren, Amy, Matthew, Scott, Sean, Richie and Kaitlyn.

He reposed at the Massapequa Fire Department, which his family described as his second home. A funeral service took place at the West End Fire House on Hicksville Road. A funeral Mass was said Wednesday, September 3, 2003. The family has requested that contributions be made to the New York State Volunteer Fireman’s Home, 125 Harry Howard Ave., Hudson, NY 12534.