Luther Arnold Bryan

Luther Arnold (Toney) Bryan died at home on January 2, 2022. Falling short of his goal to live to be at least 102 and get shot by a jealous husband, his body was 93-years-old; his spirit much younger.

He was predeceased by his wife of 36 years, Mattie Lou (Matt) Lowery Bryan; his parents; nine of his siblings and their spouses; other relatives, and numerous friends. As he outlived many of the people he loved, we’re pretty sure he was greeted upon arrival with a toddy and a “What took you so long?!”

Born November 25, 1928, to George Clark and Bessie Chancellor Bryan in Rutledge, Alabama, he was raised in the country. Even after spending most of his adult life in Montgomery, he remained a country boy at heart.

He spent most of his career in automobile sales, first at Capitol Chevrolet, then at Larry Puckett Chevrolet. During this time, he was active in the Sales & Marketing Executives (SME) Club, serving as an officer. He won numerous regional awards during his long career, including Legion of Leaders, finally retiring at 83.

He was a Master Mason and a 53-year member of Air Force One Lodge No 889, as well as a member of the Alcazar Shrine.

Toney was smart-witted, funny, and determined. He loved people, knew everybody and considered them a friend. He loved doing for others. In his younger days, he spent many a weekend working in his own yard and also cutting grass for neighbors-in-need. He loved cooking and did not know how to fix small quantities, instead preparing enough for the whole neighborhood.

He had a wonderful outlook on life; in his last 10 years, he survived numerous health issues that come from living so long. Despite facing adversities that would depress anyone else, Toney kept the attitude that any day alive was a good day.

He was a man blessed with gratitude. He considered himself lucky to be surrounded by love, and would often comment that he was “rich in so many ways”. When questioned, none of them were material; instead, all were the type of riches befitting his legacy: family, friends, a good dog, and a life filled with love and laughter.

Affectionately known as Ol’ Goat, Toney is survived by his children and their spouses: Susan Bryan, Stacey Bryan (Bob Stallman), Tim Bryan (Heather). Missing their PopPop are grandchildren Amanda Scott (Cody) and Mattison Bryan, and a great-granddaughter, Emmaline Scott. He also leaves behind his buddy, roommate, and bodyguard --- his dog, Sam.

He is survived by his loving sister, Pat Olson (Nick) and sister-in-law, Susie Lowery.

He is also survived by Sallie Grant and Viola Smith, who provided care and love during his final years, becoming family in the process.

The family would like to thank all of the many people who showered him with love, including Nikki Roberts and Jane Knight.

Special thanks to those medical professionals who did their best to help him reach his goal of 102+, loving him in the process: the entire Family Care Associates office, especially Dr. Harold Cox, Sandy, Kristy, and Stacy; and Dr. Marianne Brock and Kim at Brock Chiropractic. A special thanks to Pam Kennedy for serving as both his trainer and friend.

A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, January 9 at Leak Memory Chapel in Montgomery, Alabama. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, with the service at 2:00 PM, followed by graveside burial at Greenwood Cemetery. Covid prevention protocol will be followed and masks will be required.

Donations celebrating Toney’s life and spirit may be made to the following organizations: Montgomery Humane Society (www.montgomeryhumane.com), Montgomery Council on Aging/Meals on Wheels (www.macoa.org), and the Montgomery Area Foodbank (www.montgomeryareafoodbank.org).

Toney Bryan led a full and happy life, blessed with a loving wife and family. He spent his final years flirting with all women, taking ice cream field trips with Sam, watching Alabama football, enjoying life and an occasional toddy. He charmed those around him, bringing laughter in the room, and making others feel loved. He, in turn, knew he was loved and treasured. May we all be that lucky.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Leak-MC.com for the BRYAN family.