Scott Bryce was the actor probably best recalled from his role as Craig Montgomery on the daytime soap opera As the World Turns. He passed away on Sunday, July 12, at the far-too-young age of 68. His son, Jackson, wrote a beautiful tribute to his dad on Instagram. He honored Scott Bryce as a great parent, professional, and person. It's clear that they had a special, loving relationship. A carousel of tender snaps shows Jackson and Scott together at different stages of the boy's life. Their beaming faces tell the whole story.
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"God Called My Dad Home Today"
Scott Bryce waged a very noble fight against his encroaching illness. He did everything he could to beat it. Although he did not survive, his son evidently took heart from watching his father's gritty determination. It sounds like Scott's optimism never flagged, even as the cancer took over his body.
Jackson sorrowfully captioned his post, "God called my dad home today." He searchingly wrote in part, "This evening my father lost his long-fought battle with cancer. What began as stage three esophageal cancer eventually spread and became brain tumors that took his life away from him. Through radiation, chemo and immunotherapy, and every moment of pain, I watched my dad face it all with pride and courage, and an unshakable belief that somehow, everything would work out and he would win."
Furthermore, Jackson added, "Even just a week before he passed, while battling brain tumors, slurred speech and blurry vision, he looked me in the eyes as clear as he could and told me he still believed he had a chance—and that he was willing to fight as hard as it took."
To the end, he never surrendered his dignity or his steely resolve. There is a great deal to be said for that.
"I Was a One-Take Actor. Two Takes, Max"
Scott Bryce was extremely proud of his acting skill. He could nail a scene the first time around with no sweat. Jackson explained, "When asked what he wanted people to remember about him, he said, 'I was a one-take actor. Two takes, max.' In working with Dick Wolf on NBC, directors would schedule him at the end of the day because they knew it wouldn't take long."
He Loved Being a Dad
Scott's favorite role of all was being a father. He took immense joy in watching his son thrive. His pride was evident at each stage of Jackson's quickly-evolving life.
According to Jackson, "My dad also made sure I knew his greatest accomplishment that came at 48 years old, becoming a Dad. He supported me as far as a father possibly could...He took me across the country to chase my dreams and would have done anything to see me succeed. Being my father was always his top priority."
This grieving son finished with a teary, touching thought. "[My dad] is a part of everything I've done and everything I will do. I am endlessly grateful God chose him to be my father, and I am so proud to be his son. 'Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.' — Matthew 5:4. Until we meet again."
