News Summary
Richard Wayne Bryson, a celebrated figure in finance and sports from Long Beach, has passed away after a long battle with cancer. Bryson was known for his unwavering spirit and contributions to athletics and community service. His legacy lives on through his family and his numerous accolades, including induction into the Long Beach State University Athletic Hall of Fame. A celebration of life will be held in his honor, remembering his impact on the community and the values he instilled in others.
Long Beach, California – Richard Wayne Bryson, a notable figure in both finance and sports, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, at the age of 81 after an extensive battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his family at his time of death, marking the end of a significant life dedicated to community service, athletics, and entrepreneurship.
Bryson was born on May 31, 1944, in Long Beach, where he spent most of his life. He had a remarkable resilience, having fought a courageous battle against cancer for more than 50 years. His experience involved over ten surgeries related to melanoma and various other types of cancer, during which he spent a considerable amount of time in medical treatment. Despite the challenges, Bryson maintained an optimistic outlook and viewed his journey with cancer as a “game” that he had ultimately “won.”
He is survived by his wife, Brenda (Bree) Bryson, with whom he shared nearly 30 years of marriage, and their four children: Todd Bryson, Trent Bryson, DeAnne Shea, and Taylor Richley. His legacy continues through his ten grandchildren: Jackson, Colter, Bridger, Travis, Jared, Alexa, Bryson, Parker, Kingsley, and Margot and Scout.
Bryson was not only a family man but also a dedicated supporter of athletics in Long Beach. His contributions to sports earned him a place in the Long Beach State University Athletic Hall of Fame for both baseball and football. Throughout his career, he received numerous accolades, including NAIFA’s Will G. Farrell Public Service Award, the Ronald McDonald House “Few Good Men” Award, Long Beach Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneur of the Year, and the Los Angeles Executive of the Year. Additionally, he was honored with the Golden Boy Award from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach and recognized as Long Beach State University Graduate of the Year.
In his community service pursuits, Bryson held presidential roles on various boards including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach, the California State University Long Beach Athletic Foundation, the Long Beach Memorial Foundation, the Pacific Hospital Foundation, and Virginia Country Club. His commitment extended to fundraising efforts for numerous charitable causes, notably the MemorialCare Todd Cancer Institute at Long Beach Medical Center.
Bryson’s athletic career originated at Long Beach Poly High School, where he excelled in both football and baseball. His life and work did not just involve personal achievement; they emphasized the importance of teamwork and athleticism, values he instilled in future generations of his family.
In remembrance of his life and contributions to the community, a celebration of life is scheduled for August 10, 2025. Bryson’s final moments were characterized by a deep sense of gratitude for the love he shared with his family and friends. He often stressed that family was integral to his happiness and legacy, encouraging others to take risks in both life and business while advocating for respect and persistence in all endeavors.
Richard Wayne Bryson will be remembered as a financial and sports icon whose impact stretched far beyond his professional achievements, reflecting a life well-lived dedicated to service and community engagement.
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Additional Resources
- Long Beach State News
- Wikipedia: Richard Bryson
- OC Register Obituaries
- Google Search: Richard Bryson
- Press Telegram Article
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Richard Bryson
- Long Beach State Hall of Fame
- Google News: Richard Bryson
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
