Nellie Ruth Bryant was born March 3, 1934, in Homer, LA, and grew up in Camden, AK. She was the fourth child born to Christell and Hosie Willis. At an early age, Nellie accepted Christ into her life. She began this journey at Hadley Church of God in Christ in Camden. She continued her devotion to Christ at Greater Jackson Memorial Church of God in Christ in San Diego.
Nellie graduated valedictorian from Lincoln High School in Camden. She relocated to San Diego, CA, 1953. After moving to San Diego, she met and fell in love with Herman Bryant. In 1957, they were united in holy matrimony until his death in 2000. From this union, five children were born.
Nellie always had a passion for clothing. She began her career as a presser at the Naval Training Center San Diego. She later opened a small dry cleaner and ran this business for several years. Nellie spent more than 40 years in this career until she retired in 1993. She also had a love for food and made sure that anyone she encountered was fed. Nellie had immeasurable love for children, inspiring her to open “The Family Daycare” for her family by adding an addition to her home.
On September 10, 2022, Nellie was called to her eternal rest. She was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, Herman Bryant; her parents, 12 brothers and sisters, and one great-grandchild.
Left to cherish her memory are her children Deniece Bryant and Dennis Bryant, both of San Diego, CA; Windy Hunter of Terry, MS; Dale Bryant III (Stephanie) of San Diego, CA, and Shiree Bryant-McClendon of Gilbert, AZ; fourteen grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren; three sisters: Willie Lou Harris of Sacramento, CA, Charlean McKinny and Mearl Willis both of San Diego, CA; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.
