Obituary
Cheryl Bryant— June 29, 1954 – October 15, 2023
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Cheryl Ann Bryant, who was born on June 29, 1954, to Charles Feldmann and Theresa O’Brien (Wojdan) in Buffalo, NY, and peacefully passed away on October 15, 2023, in Dunnellon, Florida at the age of 69. Cheryl was a beacon of love, warmth, and creativity for throughout her entire life.
Cheryl is survived by her loving husband, James Bryant, residing in Dunnellon, Florida. Over nearly five decades of marriage, they created a lifetime of cherished memories, anchoring their family with strength, love, and grace. She was a devoted mother survived by her daughters Shannon (Billy) Spears and Jaimmie (Christopher) Howes. Cheryl also adored her role as a grandmother to Alicia Spears, Jimmy Shragge, Jessica Rosa, Nicholas Spears, Trever Spears, Mia Rosa, and Colt Howes, and she is survived by her cherished grandchildren. Her family held the most significant place in her heart, and her absence will be deeply felt in every family gathering, holiday celebration, and quiet moment.
A talented craftswoman, Cheryl poured her heart into every creation, reflecting her impeccable attention to detail. From hand-stitched quilts to intricate scrapbooks, she left pieces of herself in every corner of her home and in the homes of those she loved. Those who have been gifted her handcrafted treasures will forever have a piece of Cheryl’s spirit with them.
Cheryl’s legacy is not only in the crafts she left behind but in the lessons, she imparted and the love she shared. Her emphasis on the importance of family, the joy she found in the simple moments, and her keen attention to the details of life have left indelible marks on all who had the privilege to know her.
A memorial service celebrating Cheryl’s life will be held at a date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity supporting crafting education for children, continuing Cheryl’s legacy of creativity.
May her soul rest in peace, and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.
It’s not easy being married to her career Marine, trying to be a mother, a teacher, the lawyer, the plumber, the car mechanic and still work full-time, how she did it I still don’t know. Cheryl and I used to say to each other, as long as we have each other we could take whatever the world throws at us.
I remember receiving orders to Twentynine Palms from Hawaii. I just got our furniture. Everything we owned was in our driveway of a newly rented house. I received the orders for me to return to Hawaii to go to Desert Storm. Cheryl said “go” I got this. She took everything we owned that out of middle of the driveway. She took it all, moved in by herself, turned a house into a home in 1 day. Cheryl had the toughest job making a house into a home, not once, but 17 times and she never complained. Cheryl suffered from diabetes that was inherited. She fought like a lion, never surrendering, never giving up. She fought!
Cheryl’s greatest love by far was her daughters, Shannon and Jaimmie. Hearts overflowed with love, joy delight, where her grand children sand they were together. With a loving heart and photographic memory, Cheryl can vividly recall the most precious moments that she spent with each and everyone from birth to present. Yet, Cheryl could sense when her children were troubled or struggling. I heard it said, that a parent is only as happy as your happiest child. That is was Cheryl‘s heart. Nothing brought her greater joy than seeing the smiles of her daughters and the smiles of her grandchildren. Their Mom and Nana would do whatever it took to bring that happiness.
Cheryl is the most beautiful and precious thing that I have ever know. Thank you for loving her and taking care of her and treating her like the queen she is. Enjoy the view from heaven, baby put in a good word for me.
Your loving husband, Jim
From the first moment I sat at your Thanksgiving table and was served the stuffing cooked from inside the turkey, I recognized the uniqueness of our budding relationship. That meal symbolized the beginning of a journey filled with passion, challenges, and spirited conversations that would define the tapestry of our bond for nearly 24 years.
We loved fiercely and clashed passionately. There were moments when our interactions may have seemed tumultuous to the casual observer. However, beneath the surface, I believe our relationship was anchored in a deep and abiding love. That love may not have always been demonstrated in the most conventional ways, but it was always there, unwavering.
Your wisdom, which was frequently shared whether I was ready to receive it or not, often served as a guiding light. It showcased the protective nature that you had, not only for your daughter but for me as well. Despite the challenges, you always saw me as your son. That acceptance, that trust, was a testament to the depth of our relationship.
One of the crowning jewels in my life isn't just the fortune of crossing paths with your remarkable daughter but laying the foundation of a life and family alongside her. In doing so, we have been blessed to share many beautiful memories with you, our children, and Papa. As days pass, these memories cascade back, underscoring the connection that binds us. We will celebrate and remember you always.
Thank you for being the guiding force, the sherpa, who has been instrumental in shaping me into the man I am today. You were a beacon of strength, resilience, and wisdom. And even though our journey had its ups and downs, the love was always present. Here's to you, a fierce, passionate, and loving soul. You will forever be remembered and cherished in my heart.
I still have so many memories of the one I loved so much ❤️❤️❤️
I’ll miss you for rest of my life
Love you anna
Your loving daughter Jaimmie