John L. Bryant born December 23, 1930, to deceased parents James Olin Bryant and Agnes Mabel Mayer Bryant in the city of Mt. Vernon, Jefferson County, Illinois. Passed from life to Eternal Life July 4, 2020.
Served God and his fellow man as Minister from age 6, preaching his first sermon on the 23rd Psalm to over 3000 in Beulah Tabernacle, Eldorado, Illinois. Served the church as a Pastor in five different states: Kentucky, Florida, Illinois, Michigan and Texas.
Graduated Mt. Vernon Township High School, Asbury College, Wilmore, Kentucky with a Bachelor of Arts degree – Major in Religious Education, Master of Theology – Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University and served the children and people of this planet through five different professions: Minister, YMCA Professional, Banker, Corporate Division of Methodist Hospitals of Dallas, and finally as “The Real Santa Claus”, with Agent of Kim Dawson, Talent Artist as manager. Known to all he came in contact with whether in Santa Suit, or on the street, as Santa. Leaving with thousands of children and adults “the Spirit of Santa” – Love, Giving, Forgiving and Receiving.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Esther Katherine Postina Bryant, three sons – twin sons Jay Kent Bryant and wife Robyn of Eagle, Colorado; Jon Kyle Bryant and wife Nikki of Richardson, Texas; and Dallas Garth Bryant of Frisco, Texas. Four grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, one great grandchild, three step-great grandchildren and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews and friends the world over.
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