Betty Jo Bryant

With hearts full of both sorrow and joy, we announce the passing of our beloved Betty Jo Bryant, age 97, who went home to be with her Savior on July 22, 2026. A devoted servant of the Lord, her faith was the foundation of her life, and she shared the love of Jesus with everyone she met. Though we grieve her absence here on earth, we rejoice knowing that she is in the presence of her Lord, embraced by the eternal peace and glory of heaven.

A lifelong member of North Cleveland Church of God, Betty dedicated her life to studying the Bible and living according to God's Word. She found great joy in caring for and nurturing children, whether through her church, community, or family. For many years, she lovingly cared for the children in the First Baptist Church nursery, and her nurturing spirit touched every little life she held and every parent she comforted.

Her life was a testament to kindness, prayer, and unwavering faith, and she leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. Her family will forever cherish her unwavering love, faith, and guidance.

Betty is survived by her brother, Robert Ownby of Aiken, South Carolina; her son, Gregory Michael Bryant (Karen) of Columbus, Mississippi; her son, Gary Lee Bryant (Maureen) of Cleveland, Tennessee; her granddaughter, Stephanie Bryant Godfrey (Lance) of Columbus, Mississippi; her grandsons, Jasen Michael Bryant (Sherry) of Columbus, Mississippi, and Christopher Lee Bryant of Cleveland, Tennessee; her great-grandchildren, Will Godfrey (Wesleigh), Christina Godfrey Reed-Wood (Jared), and Abby Kemp, all of Columbus, Mississippi; Olivia Neilson (Luke) of Colorado ,and her great-great-grandson, Riley James Godfrey of Columbus, Mississippi.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clell H. and Trula Cole Ownby; her sister, Wanda R. Pritchett; her brothers, Carl H. Ownby and Doyle Steve Ownby; and her beloved husband, William Ernest "Billy" Bryant.

A celebration of Betty's life will be held at Buckner & Fike Funeral Home on Friday, July 24, 2026. The family will receive friends from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m., with the funeral service immediately following.

Pallbearers will be Christopher Lee Bryant, Jasen Bryant, Lance Godfrey, Will Godfrey, Jared Reed-Wood, and William M. Torbett.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of Betty Jo's favorite charities.

AHA: https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=5f3f68f5b78e50560c9a2bcc669c0a948eb090363f6dea29595b1655527c4fa3JmltdHM9MTc4NDc2NDgwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=1aeb7e27-9d14-6dce-0f5a-697a9c3b6ccf&psq=american+heart+association+donation+link&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaGVhcnQub3JnL2VuL2dldC1pbnZvbHZlZC93YXlzLXRvLWdpdmUu

The family is in the care of Buckner & Fike Funeral Home and Cremation.