Obituary
Michael Bryant Renfroe passed away peacefully on March 8, 2022. Bryant had suffered from a stroke, December 21, 2019. For the last six months he resided in Port Orange, Fl. With his caregiver, Dr. Mae- Ellen Bailey. She made sure Bryant enjoyed the Florida sunshine and had the best of care. Also, Jenny and Doug Dwyer for taking on the responsibility of his care, after Bryant’s husband passed away August 27, 2021. Previously he resided in Southampton, New York.
Bryant had lived a full life. After graduating from S.R. Butler High School in 1972, Huntsville, Al. Bryant went to the Scientific Beauty Academy in Huntsville Al. Where he learned his skill as a Hairstylist. He also had a Dog Grooming Business, The Master’s Lead.
Later, Bryant moved to Orlando, Fl. working as a Stylist with Regis Salon. A call from Disney World changed Bryant’s life forever.
Joan Lunden, working for ABC’s Good Morning America, needed a Stylist for the Disney Christmas Parade. Bryant was chosen from a staff of forty at the Regis Salon.
Impressed with Bryant’s talent, Bryant was called to come to New York City to work with ABC as Joan’s stylist. After working with Good Morning America until 1987, Bryant made the move to work with Kathie Lee Gifford on “Live with Kathie Lee and Regis”. Bryant was also working with Barbara Walters on ABC’s 20/20.
Later, Bryant joined Barbara Walters on a new show “The View”. Not only was Bryant a stylist for Barbara, but he was also, at times, a featured guest. Giving viewers ideas for new styles, makeovers and new hair products. At one point he was a spokesperson for Ogilvie.
Bryant’s biggest accomplishment was winning eight Emmy’s for “The View” and styling Barbara’s hair. He was excited to bring the first Emmy to Huntsville to show his family. Mellijo and Willie Renfroe, who preceded him in death.
Bryant traveled the world with Barbara Walters, until her retirement in 2014. Meeting President’s, Dignitaries, The Daila Lama, Celebrities. Visiting the Taj Mahal at Sunrise and seeing the sun set in Venezuela.
Bryant also retired, leaving New York City to move to Southampton, New York, to be with his spouse Joseph Dwyer.
Bryant got his Real Estate License and joined the Corcoran Group and started a new career. Bryant and Joseph enjoyed helping clients finding the perfect Hampton home.
They both enjoyed their five fur babies, cooking, gardening and sitting by the pool. Bryant enjoyed his Smooth Hair fox terriers. In retirement, showing them in several dog shows, winning ribbons, for their achievements.
Bryant is also survived by his sister, Anne Hammett and Spouse Lanny, Nephew Lon Hammett, Hazel Green, Al. Lottie Elliott, Danville, Al. Great Niece, Tempie Hammett and Great Nephew, Lars Hammett. Joseph’s family of brothers and their wives. Also, many friends Bryant has made along the way, including Bill and Dana, Brad LaRosa, Linda Finson and Sheryl Steeves.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Paw It Forward Foundation.
Paw it Forward Foundation
16 White Pine Rd. Ste 1A
Hermon, Me
Veno@mnbpawitforward
No formal services will be held. Baldwin Brothers Funeral Home, Port Orange, Fl. was in charge of arrangements.
I will miss him. My heart is broken .
I had no idea and only learned of your passing today when I reached out to see if you were okay. My god. I’m sorry… I don’t know what to say, thanks for your kindness when we worked together at The View. You were always so lovely. Rest In Peace dear Bryant
I love you,
As you would call me,
" Sister Cleave"
(Anne Hammett)
Visiting Bryant , Joe and I brought one of the babies. Made his day right before Covid struck
Visiting Bryant we brought one of the babies to visit Rehab for Bryant to pick up his spirits. Just before Covid nightmare Feb. I miss them both . He was so happy this day
You have taught me many things Bryant about LIFE and about myself. It has been an honor to care for you. I so appreciated the way you would just light up all over whenever Baby Parker would Skype
us at bedtime so you could say good night, it warmed my heart to know you thought she was the sweetest too.
You put up a good fight, I am praying you have found the peace you were searching for.