July 17, 2025, 72, Goldsboro —-
William Mark Bryan, lovingly known as “Big Mark,” passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, July 17, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. He was 72.
Born in Wayne County on Valentine’s Day, 1953, Mark was the son of the late J.W. Bryan and Melrose Best Bryan. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved sister, Terry Bryan Butler, and his cherished in-laws, Ida and Donnie Johnson.
A man of many talents and deep convictions, Mark’s heart beat strongest for two things: music and family.
Mark spent many years farming the land he loved, nurturing it with care and respect. He later traveled the open roads as a truck driver, known by his CB handle “TBird,” hauling loads across the country and collecting stories from every stop along the way. Honoring his father’s wishes, Mark also trained as an auctioneer in his younger years.
But it was behind the drums that Mark found his greatest joy. Music ran through his veins. He played for Jimmy Sasser’s Country Band, with the Sunshine Band for over 15 years, and offered his gift in worship at Mount Olive First Pentecostal Holiness Church and The First Pentecostal Holiness Church with Carolyn Castania. In later years, he reunited with old friends to form the High Risk Band, a testament to his enduring love for performance and rhythm. One of the proudest moments of his life came at age 50, when he had the chance to play country music in Nashville.
When he wasn’t behind the drums, Mark could be found fishing, tinkering around the house, or simply enjoying the peace of a quiet day. Though his love for music was great, his love for his family was greater. Mark was a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, and a loyal brother. He always wanted the best for those he loved, offering encouragement, strength, and unconditional love.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 50 years, JoAnn Johnson Bryan; sons, Mark William Bryan and wife Amy Batten-Bryan of Goldsboro, and Matthew Donnie Bryan of Dudley; his adored grandchildren, Macon Lee Bryan and Marinah LeAnn Bryan; his sister, Pam Bryan; and his brother-in-law, Danny Butler. Also surviving are his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Martin and Rhonda Johnson of Goldsboro, and LaGray and Charlie Marks of Oak Ridge; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins whom he loved deeply.
A service to celebrate Mark’s life will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, July 21, 2025, at Ray of Hope Church in Goldsboro, officiated by Rev. Keith Johnson and Michael Odom. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. at the church. A private entombment will be held at Wayne Memorial Park.
