OUT ON A HIGH
Son pays moving tribute to inspirational dad
A colourful entrepreneur who died suddenly in his sleep has been hailed for living life to the full.
Craig Bryson was just 47.
His stunned family this week paid tribute to the business mogul for being their “inspiration”.
Son Daniel, 25, said the family were devastated.
“Dad was a man who lived life in the fast lane and went out at his peak,” he added.
“He did more in his 47 years than most people would do in 100.
“He enjoyed a couple of Jack Daniels’ and a cigarette the night before he died and simply never woke up.
“But we are taking comfort from the fact he suffered no pain.”
The result of a post mortem to determine the cause of death was due today ( Wednesday).
Craig rose to prominence as the founder of Digital Kitchens and Bedrooms before joining forces with art phenomenon, Steven Brown.
An inspirational dad, devoted husband and driving force in the business world.
Craig Bryson’s sudden death has shocked Ayrshire this week, leaving with it a massive void in so many lives.
But now those closest to him have vowed to honour his legacy as only he would know how.
A post mortem was due today ( Wednesday).
Craig, who was 47, died in his sleep at his home in Prestwick.
Son Daniel said: “We are trying to be positive.
“Dad was an inspiration to so many and would not want people moping around.
“He was showing no obvious signs of ill health and has gone out on a high.
“He got to enjoy his life by working hard and making the most of it.
“And we have been truly touched by the number of people who have come forward to say just how much of an impact he had on their own lives.”
As a fledgling teen entrepreneur, Kilmarnock lad, Craig, started on his road to fortune working in his dad’s furniture shop.
The pair then launched the Curtain Time stall in Ayr’s Indoor Market and, from there, Craig’s thirst for trade took off.
His own shop in Ayr’s Carrick Street quickly followed, as did expansion into the mirrors, picture and artwork field.
Daniel, 25, said: “Dad was into a bit of everything but I guess people will know him mostly for Digital Kitchens and Bedrooms.
“He founded that company in 2011 and it became a huge success.”
Daniel, who followed his dad into the business and is now Digital’s assistant manager, added: “Latterly he had been enjoying a fantastic time with Steven Brown Art.
“The pair of them were childhood friends and dad knew there was a big talent there in Steven and a huge business opportunity.
“Their business has gone international and given my dad some amazing times.
“He lived the good life, got to drive his supercars and loved every minute of it.
“But he never forgot who he was and a more generous guy you could not meet.
“As far as we’re concerned he has gone out on a high and we are determined to celebrate his life as that’s what he would want.
“The funeral will not be a sausage roll and scones affair and we are hoping to get in a couple of singers and make it a real party in his honour.”
Craig is survived by wife Linda, sons Daniel and Lewis, brother Martin, sister Lynne and dad Bill. Craig’s funeral will take place at Prestwick’s Kingcase Church on Monday, November 5 at 12.30pm. From there it is on to Ayr Cemetery and the Carlton Hotel.