PORT ORCHARD — James W. Bryan (Jim) passed away July 1. He was the oldest son of James W. Bryan, Jr., a prominent Bremerton attorney, and Vena Bryan.

Jim was born on Feb. 5, 1932 in Bremerton. He was a real estate broker with Coldwell Banker Parkshore for many years. Later he opened Book ‘Em, the largest used bookstore in Port Orchard.

Jim was a quick-witted man with a devilish sense of humor. He also was incredibly compassionate. He and his wife Charlene donated much of their profits from their bookstore to various charities. They also compiled and distributed big plastic survival bags for the less fortunate that included ready-to-eat food, hygiene products and various sundries.

Jim also loved to write short stories, limericks and poems. Just before his death, his wife happened to find this one that he wrote to his grandchildren years ago:

Papa’s gone

He’s gone away,

He won’t be back

At all today.

In fact, he won’t

Be back at all

He cannot write

Or even call.

But don’t be sad

And don’t despair

Cause Papa now

Is everywhere.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Charlene Bryan, and his brother, Judge Robert J. Bryan. He was the caring father and role model for his two sons, Jim Bryan of Port Orchard and Ken Bryan of Portland, and daughter Holly Bryan of Westport.

He also leaves behind grandchildren Ashley, Jimmy, Chelsey, Andy, Rain, Charlie and Gus, and great-grandchildren Alexie, Jacob, Kylie and Adalyn.