“Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” (Col 3:23) Erman Johnson Bryant went home to receive his inheritance on Wednesday, July 1, 2021. A fervent servant of Christ, and a patriarch of his family, Erman was well known for his hard work, service to his community, and dedication to the Lord’s work. He was born in Patrick County on April 10, 1947, to the late Chester Columbus Bryant and Lonie Bryant Rorrer. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother-in-law, G. W. Thomas, and one sister-in-law, Regena Haden Handy.
Surviving is his loving wife of 41 years, Linda Lou Handy Bryant, of the home: his son, Jason Erman Bryant, and wife, Monica. Five grandsons, Kenneth, Dillon, David, Paul, and Jake Bryant; two granddaughters, Jessica and Abigail Bryant; three brothers, Calvin Bryant and wife Debbie, Kent Bryant and wife Charlene, James Bryant and wife Judy; two sisters, Lucille Bryant Thomas and Anna Bryant Walker; one brother-in-law, James “Jimmy” Handy, and several nieces and nephews.
Erman graduated from Nashville Auto Diesel College, then started his career as a welder, fabricator, mechanic, and carpenter before settling into being the owner and operator of Buffalo Ridge Construction. During his retirement, he enjoyed landscaping, golfing, and trips to the beach. He was a long-time serving member of Smith River Church of the Brethren and loved speaking in church and teaching Sunday School. “Victory in Jesus,” was his favorite hymn. Hours of laughs were enjoyed while playing Mexican Train Dominoes, the game Erman introduced to his family.
The family will receive friends at Moody Funeral Home on Sunday, July 4th from 2-4 PM. A funeral service will be Monday, July 5th at Smith River Church of the Brethren at 2 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mountain Valley Hospice.
