James Shuck Bryan

James Shuck Bryan passed away February 11, 2024.  He was born November 16, 1946, in Erie, PA. Jim was the son of the late Mary Margaret Shuck and James Purcell Bryan.

He was a 1964 graduate of North East High School.  A member of SAE, Jim received his BS degree from Allegheny College in 1968.  Jim served on the Harvard Law Review, graduating Magna Cum Laude from Harvard Law School in 1971.  He was admitted to the PA Bar in 1971.  From 1972-1974, Jim served as a captain and military judge in the USMC, stationed at Parris Island, S.C.  After fulfilling his service commitment, Jim and family returned to North East.  Jim practiced law with his father at the Bryan Law Offices in North East and Cranesville.  In 2009, he joined Knox Law, later transitioning to Of Counsel.

Throughout his career, Jim was active in his community.  He was a director of the National Bank of North East, North East Borough Solicitor, a 30 year member of The Hirtzel Memorial Foundation, and President of The Erie County Bar Association in 2004.  He was later recognized for 50 years of outstanding service to the Erie County Bar Association.

Jim had fun restoring his Model A and Model T and taking his cars for a spin.  He was honored to judge the antique cars and fire trucks in the Cherry Festival Parade.

Jim really enjoyed his life, living in God’s country.  He loved his family, his friends, and his Church.  He was a lifelong member of Park United Methodist Church.  We extend a heartfelt Thank You to Fred and the fellows at Burger King, as well as the very kind employees.

Jim is survived by his wife Cynthia (Keck) Bryan, married June 20, 1970, daughters Amy Bryan (Nathan Fry) of Lexington, MA, and Kimberly Kosto (Martin) of Edina, MN, sister Betsy J. Bemis (Charles) of Paoli, PA, Sisters-in-law Sally Keck of Boston, MA, Wendy Fryfogle (James) of Spring, TX, grandchildren Kirsten Kosto, Kedran Kosto, and James Bryan (JB) Fry, Aunt Martha Jean Bryan, nieces Rebecca Bemis (Bill Repetto), Ashley Cunningham (Scott) and nephew Adam Fryfogle.  Preceded in death by a nephew, James Bryan Bemis.

Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of his family.  Funeral arrangements are under the care of the W. Tad Bowers Funeral Home, 92 S. Lake St., North East, PA

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Park United Methodist Church, 30 N. Lake, St., North East, PA 16428.  To send condolences, please visit www.bowersfuneralhome.com.

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