GATES – Robert Aubrey “Bob” Bryan, 86, of NC 37 North, Gates, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 1, 2012 in Reston, VA.

Born in Queens, NY, he was the son of the late Clarence Aubrey and May Hayes Bryan.  Raised in Prince George County, VA, he was graduated from Carson High School in 1944.  Immediately after graduation Bob joined the US Navy and was assigned to the Pacific Theater during the balance of World War II.  Honorably discharged in April 1946, he returned home to join the Virginia State Police.  In 1948 he married Helen B. Winn of Hebron, VA and soon after moved to Arlington where in 1950 he joined the Arlington County Fire Dept., rising to the rank of Captain.  After his first retirement he and Helen moved to Gates where he was employed by the US Postal Service as a rural route letter carrier.  He retired from that job on his 65th birthday but actively continued a building business he had started several years earlier.

A Master Mason, he was a member since 1964 of Glebe Lodge #81 in Arlington, the Sudan Temple of the Shrine in New Bern, and Whaleyville, VA Chapter #137, The Order of the Eastern Star.  For nearly half a century, he was a proud and active Free Mason in both Virginia and North Carolina.  A faithful and dedicated member of Kittrell’s United Methodist Church in Gates, he served his Lord and that church in several capacities.

Surviving are his wife of 64 years, Helen; his son, Mac Bryan and wife, Carole; his daughter, Tina Schott; six grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service with Eastern Star rites will be held Saturday, November 17, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. in Kittrell’s United Methodist Church.  The Rev. Mike Askew will officiate.  Following the church service the family will receive friends in the fellowship hall of nearby Reynoldson Baptist Church.

Miller Funeral Home, 304 Main Street, Gatesville, is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers contributions in his memory may be made to Kittrell’s United Methodist Church, in care of Ada Carroll, 1046 NC 37 North, Gates, NC  27937.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.