Barbara Odessa Bryant

EVANGELIST BARBARA BRYANT

SEPTEMBER 20, 1934 - MAY 27, 2025

Mother Barbara Bryant, beloved daughter of the late Raymond and Thelma (Edmond) Taylor was born on September 20, 1934, in Newsome, Virginia.

Barbara spent 90 vibrant years, as a shining example of God’s love and grace. Her greatest joy was found in her devotion to Jesus Christ, whom she loved and dedicated her life at the tender age of 13. A devoted servant at St. Stephen’s Cathedral C.O.G.I.C. she faithfully served on the Usher Board, Deaconess and Mother’s Board Ministries, and was a licensed Evangelist. Her leadership blossomed and became the Youth Mother in 2006 and Church Mother in 2022. Her legacy of faith extended beyond the church walls – she served on the Usher Board at Linda Vista Second Baptist Church and led a Youth and In-Home Prayer Ministry for over 51 years. She also served the community in her professional career as a Registered Nurse for 21 years.

Barbara lived each day with a joyful spirit, embracing life’s simple pleasures. She cherished friendship retreats, brought laughter to every gathering, and welcomed all with her mouthwatering aroma of her legendary Sweet Potato Pies! With her warmth and infectious zest for life, she transformed ordinary moments into treasured celebrations, leaving everyone she met with full hearts and spirits lifted.

Barbara’s life blossomed with love when she met and married Elder Johnnie Bryant, beginning a remarkable journey that flourished for over sixty years. Together, they built a legacy rooted in faith, devotion, and joy—nurturing a family blessed with five wonderful sons—Terrence, David, Steve, Kevin, and Keith—and a beloved daughter, Janice. Their enduring union stands as a shining testament to the power of love and commitment, inspiring all who know their story.

Barbara answered her Savior’s call on May 27, 2025 – embracing her eternal reward with open arms. Now, she dwells in the radiant presence of the Lord, reunited with loved ones and surrounded by everlasting peace, joy, and praise. While we bid her a temporary farewell, let our hearts be comforted by the assurance that Barbara’s spirit lives on – woven into the fabric of our lives and shining through every act of love and kindness she inspired. Her steadfast faith, gentle spirit, and compassionate heart remain a guiding light, leading us ever closer to God’s embrace and reminding us that love endures beyond this life.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents: Raymond and Thelma (Edmond) Taylor; her husband: Elder Johnnie Bryant; her siblings: Connie, Gene, Stanley, and Anthony; two brothers-in-law: Milton and Shell; and two grandsons: Michael and Steven.

Barbara’s extraordinary legacy lives on through her loving family: her six children – Terrence, David, Steve, Janice, Kevin (Sue), and Keith (Phelicia); six grandchildren – Keiyana, Kendra, Taylor, Sienna (Asem), Carlissa (Adrian), and Domonique; and ten great-grandchildren: Kai, Qadir, Amir, Kahlil, Adriana, Alaia, Anthony, Avery, Taylor, and Tesa; her extended family: Sabrina, Veronica, Matthew, Brianne, Jayla, and Faith. Her journey was a celebration of faith, love, and selfless service—a legacy that continues to inspire all who were blessed to know her.