Johnnye W. Bryant

Johnnye W. Bryant, 94, of Bainbridge, passed away Sunday, June 23, 2024.

Johnnye Ruth Williams was born June 6, 1930, to Ralph Curtis Williams and Hazel Elizabeth Smith Williams in Smithfield, North Carolina. In 1931 the family moved to Lancaster, South Carolina, where they lived until 1945 when they moved to Albany, GA. Johnnye Ruth graduated from Albany High School in the class of 1947. Later in life, she attended Bainbridge College and was a member of Phi Theta Kappa.

While living in Georgia, she met Thomas Luther Bryant. They were married on June 12, 1948, at her former home in South Carolina. With the exception of six months residence in Auburn, Alabama, the Bryants lived the entire remainder of their lives in Bainbridge.

"Miss Johnnye", as she became known, was a "stay-at-home mom" for 18 years. During this time, she was active in the First Christian Church; church summer camp, the Boy Scouts of America and Jones-Wheat PTA. In 1968, she began several decades of secretarial employment at Bainbridge State Hospital. Upon retirement, she continued to be active in the church; including becoming a registered Girl Scout Troop Leader for the Christian Church sponsored troop. In the local arts community, she was a patron of the Bainbridge Little Theatre, a member of Firehouse Arts Center, River Readers, River Writers, and the Decatur County Artists' Guild. Her paintings were on display at many local art shows, and she enjoyed giving her artwork to family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 36 years, three sons and her brother. Her survivors include six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

A private graveside service was held at Oak City Cemetery. Online visitors may sign the guest register at www.bryantfuneralga.com.