Learn Karate at United House of Karate

Bryan Ray Porter, 64, a beloved figure of Jacksonville's community, sadly left our world on February 8th, 2025, after a life richly lived in teaching, service, and kindness to all. 

Bryan was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida. He attended Sandalwood High School and graduated in '78, where he was the Captain of the wrestling team and a member of the marching band drum line, the first core group to flip sticks on the snare line for Sandalwood. 

Grand Master of Porter’s United House of Karate, Hachi Dan, 8th Degree, Sensei Porter was a beacon of light and hope in our community, shaping many lives by sharing the art of Shotokan Karate with his countless students and Black Belts. Preceded by his father Lawrence, Bryan was a part of the second of three generations of Black Belts in the family tree. From 1965 up until the present, he completed 60 years as a student and teacher of Shotokan Karate. 

President of the NFMAA, he put together open tournaments for all competitors of all styles throughout Florida, Georgia, and the Southeastern United States to showcase their skills in martial arts. 

The Jaguars held a special place in his heart, as he was the Ultimate Fan, even without official recognition. A Founding Season Ticket Member of 30 Years, he was loyal to the team from day one in December of 1993, just as he was loyal to his family and friends throughout his life. As a regular staple of the front row,  Section 121 Row A, he hoped we would win a championship someday. He attended every Jaguars home game but two until this past season. His Jaguars family knows that he will now guide us into our future as the 12th man from the great beyond. The "We Are Not Worthy" touchdown celebration will never be the same without him in the middle of the pack, leading the charge, but we will forever continue to honor his legacy by preforming this tradition from the front row after every Jaguars score.

He was preceded in death by his father Lawrence Ray Porter; his mother Thelma Elaine Porter; his sister Pamela Elaine Lovell; his Uncles, Benny, Floyd, & Billy; his Aunts, Evelyn, Bonifay, Jacqueline, June, Marjorie, Linda, & Betty; and his cousins, Bean, Mickey, Jacob, & Christine in New Orleans and Jacksonville. He is survived by and leaves a legacy through his son Bryan Lawrence Porter; his daughter Brooke Danielle Porter; his brother Kevin Kieth Porter; his loving partner Lori E. Crowley; his daughter-in-law Shellie Ruth Porter; and all of his cousins in New Orleans and in Jacksonville as well as many, many friends. Sensei Bryan’s memory will be a guiding star for all who knew him. 

In remembrance, a gathering will take place where we will honor Grand Master Bryan’s enduring impact on our community at the Holly Oaks Event Hall at 11210 McCormick Road Jacksonville, FL 32225 on March 22nd, at 2pm.