The Central City Republican-Nonpareil | January 8, 2026

Douglas C. “Doug” Bryant, 83, of Grand Island, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 24, 2025.

A celebration of Doug’s life with military honors was held on Friday, January 2nd at St.

Paul’s Lutheran Church with Pastor Bill Pavuk officiating. The service was livestreamed on the church’s Facebook page.

Visitation was held one hour prior to the service. All Faiths Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements. Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. Condolences can be left at www.giallfaiths. com.

Doug was born on February 2, 1942, in Polk, to Clarence and Eleanor (Johnson) Bryant.

He spent his formative years in Polk until the age of seven when his family relocated to York, where he would eventually graduate from York High School in 1959.

Doug then pursued higher education in Milford, earning a degree in Autobody Repair, laying the groundwork for a lifetime of excellence. His service in the United States Army further shaped his character when he enlisted in 1966 and was honorably discharged in 1972. Doug’s love for cars was more than a hobby; it was a calling that fueled a lifetime career of working on and restoring vehicles including some classics.

Owning several iconic cars, he shared his passion through various ventures, including his first body shop in Waco and another in Grand Island on 4th Street, before finding his legacy in Central City with Ace Body Shop, established on August 25, 1975. He then later expanded his business, opening Ace Used Cars next door in 1999. After decades of dedication, Doug sold his businesses in 2020, embarking on a well-deserved retirement where he loved spending his free time playing the game of poker. His spirit was defined not just by work but by the need for adventure, whether through the thrill of him racing his IMCA Modified race car or joyful moments with his grandkids getting on the rides at the fair. On May 3, 2003, Doug’s life took another meaningful turn when he united in marriage with Betty Findley, following a heartfelt proposal at the Hoover Dam. Together, they blended their families totaling six daughters, imparting wisdom and love. Family was at the core of their joy, whether through poker nights where Doug taught his girls the game, travels to see their grandkids play ball, or special trips to Graceland for their honeymoon and an Alaskan cruise for their anniversary.

Doug’s membership with the Eagles Club and American Legion underscored his commitment to the community.

Camping adventures in their Winnebago, board involvement with 4-H, and supporting his girls in various activities, including showing sheep, were testaments to his devoted fatherhood and active community spirit. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Betty Bryant; daughters, Suzanne (Gunner) Lulow, Sherri (Mark) Sanchez, Michelle (Warren) Whelan, Stephanie (Joshua) Pitstick, Sara (Jeremiah) Blair, and Megan (Adam) Gray; nineteen grandchildren; fifteen great grandchildren; sister in-law, Carol Bryant; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Bob and Clayton Bryant.