Obituary published on Legacy.com by Bennie Smith Funeral Home - Dover on Jan. 7, 2025.
Howard Sylvester Bryant, born on July 16, 1949, in Marianna, Florida, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2024, in
Dover, Delaware. He was the beloved son of the late Carbert and Lucretia Sims Bryant.
Howard graduated from Jackson County High School before being drafted into the U.S. Army in 1969. He served honorably as a light weapons infantryman during the Vietnam War, earning the prestigious Combat Infantry Man Badge for his service with "The Famous Fighting Infantry Division" in the Republic of Vietnam. Following his honorable discharge, Howard embarked on a meaningful career as both a private chauffeur and a postal worker while residing in New Jersey.
In 2010, Howard relocated to
Dover, Delaware, and was joined in marriage to Dorothy Bryant and became a very dedicated member of Bibleway Temple C.O.G.I.C., under the leadership of Bishop Thomas L. Holsey. Howard embraced his faith wholeheartedly and dedicated himself to various roles within the church community. He served as a Sunday School Chaplain. He was so enthused with Sunday School that he would be waiting in his car for the church doors to open. Believe me, there was never a dull moment when he was present. He was also a member of the Pastor's Aide Committee and a former member of the Bibleway Choir. His unwavering devotion to his faith were hallmarks of his spiritual journey.
Throughout his life, Howard exemplified kindness and generosity. He often went out of his way to assist others with transportation needs and provided guidance to fellow veterans navigating military benefits. As a mentor with the Superior Court of Delaware's Veteran Volunteer Mentor program, for which he received a certificate. He offered steadfast support and encouragement to those seeking direction. He was a true veteran at heart. He would witness and talk about Jesus to anyone who would listen. His favorite saying was, "Just Jesus".
Howard is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy Bryant; his daughter, Djuanna Nicole Kennedy (Charles McMillian) of Somerset, NJ; five sisters: Hurcles Bumpas; Ruth Ann White (Charles) of Clayton, NC; Mattie Watts (James), and Hermie Perkins (Wilbert) of Irvington, NJ; and Betty Dickens (Raymond) of Marianna, FL. Two brothers, Carbert Bryant Jr., and Will Henry Bryant (Andrewnett) of Marianna, FL; and one brother-in-law James Gibson, Tallahassee, FL; 2 grandsons (Somerset, NJ) and 2 granddaughters (Philadelphia, PA). Devoted stepdaughter, Chandra Roberson (
Dover, DE) and 2 stepsons, Darrick Roberson (Shreveport, LA) and Marcelle Roberson (Newark, DE); 15 step-grandchildren and 7 step-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carbert and Lucretia Bryant; sister Louise Gibson; 2 brothers Virgil and Jimmie Bryant; and sons Xavier and Zevin Bryant.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Howard's nurses at Fresenius and his veteran friends who supported him throughout his life. His memory will forever be cherished by all who knew him as a man of faith, service, and love.
May Howard Sylvester Bryant rest in eternal peace with our Lord.
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