Grace Bryant

Grace Elizabeth Gay Bryant (affectionately known as "Big Mom"), 91, of Colonial Heights passed peacefully on Tuesday, May 10, 2016, surrounded by family, at her residence. Born January 30, 1925, she was the daughter of the late Julius and Emma Gay, and the widow of Herbert B. Bryant, husband of 43 years and truly the love of her life. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Edward and Wilbur Gay; sister, Mildred Vaughan. Retiring from the Medical Records Department at Central State Hospital following 25 years of service, Grace was a friend to many and known for staying on-the-go, always ready to go anywhere at anytime. A one-of-a-kind and known for wearing her favorite color, lavender, Grace was extremely social enjoying shopping, dining out, always camera-ready and taking photographs, crocheting, and above all, spending time with her family. Fifty plus years ago, she and her husband were the founders of the Special Education Sunday School Class at Woodlawn Baptist Church while also being instrumental in developing these classes in churches across the tri-cities. Later, as a charter member at Swift Creek Baptist Church, they were also responsible for founding a Special Education Sunday School Class, that continues today, as well as Grace playing active roles within the Church, to include singing in the choir as well as being a member of the Twilighters. She was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Post 284, as well as the Senior Citizens Club of Colonial Heights. Along with her daughter, Bonnie Belle, Grace was very active in and had a passion for Special Olympics activities and athletes. Survived by her daughters she affectionately referred to as "my five girls" are Vickie Bryant (companion Rodger Doss) of Chester, Bonnie Belle Bryant of Petersburg, Bettie "Babs" McCrea (John) of Colonial Heights, Konnie Duong (Mike) of Colonial Heights, and Hank Mollie Hamel (Richard) of Atlanta, Georgia; nine grandchildren, Bryant Akins (Robin), Joshua McCrea (Carolyn), Gabriene McCrea (companion Dr. Wes Parker), Kasey Bryant, Alex Johnson (Jesse Shores), Baileigh Duong, Grayson Duong, Jackson Hamel, Berkeley Hamel; and three great-grandchildren, Kylan Bryant, Kara Shores, Kori Grace Shores; as well as sister, Julia Buren, brothers-in-law, Philip Bryant (Ruth), Richard Bryant (Lena) all of Colonial Heights. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 14, 2016 at Swift Creek Baptist Church, 18510 Branders Bridge Rd, Colonial Heights, VA 23834, with the Reverend Dr. Steve Felker officiating. Interment will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, Chester. The family will receive friends this Friday evening, May 13, 2016, from 6-8:30 p.m. at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Colonial Heights Special Olympics, c/o Tracy Lowery, 603 Old Oak Lane, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. Condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.

Visitation Details

Friday, May 13th, 2016 6:00pm - 8:30pm, Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small

Service Information

Saturday, May 14th, 2016 11:00am, Swift Creek Baptist Church

Interment Details

Sunset Memorial Park