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Thomas Bryant Obituary

Thomas "Tommy" Alfred Bryant

Black Mountain - Thomas "Tommy" Alfred Bryant, 74, of Black Mountain, passed suddenly at his home Tuesday, June 2, 2015. He was born April 8, 1941 in Spindale, North Carolina and was a lifelong area resident.

Tommy graduated from Old Fort High School in 1960 and worked as an apprentice at Southern Color Print Corporation in Newport News, Virginia before returning to the area to work as a pressman for the Asheville Citizen-Times from 1968 until his retirement in December 2006.

He was the son of the late James "Rufus" Bryant and Ada Grigg Bryant and was preceded in death by three brothers, Paul Ray Bryant, General Johnson Bryant and William "Ronnie" Bryant.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of almost 53 years, Edna Mae Surrett Bryant; sons Thomas "Tab" Anthony Bryant and Barry Michael Bryant both of Black Mountain; brother James Bryant and wife Frances of Holly, Michigan; sisters Gail Bryant Effler and husband John of Newport News, Virginia; Doris Bryant of Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, Brenda Bryant McGinnis and Carolyn Bryant McGinnis, both of Hampton, Virginia; grandchildren Lisa Bryant Mason and Dylan Bryant, both of Black Mountain; Toshia Bryant Brown of Weaverville; three great grandchildren, Codey, Jennifer and Daxon; dear friend of the family Barbara Hunt as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Tommy had a kind, gentle spirit with a selfless, giving heart. He was dedicated to his family and loved spending time with them. He was incredibly patient and had an amazing ability to connect with children who in turn, looked up to him. In no time, he became their "hero."

He was a hard worker but knew how to enjoy life and have a good time. He liked to cook, watch old western films and the "Andy Griffin Show" as well as take trips to the beach. He enjoyed pulling for his favorite NASCAR driver #24 Jeff Gordon and was a loyal St. Louis Rams fan. He loved listening to hard rock music and taking walks at the lake with his beloved rescue dog, "Sugar."

Tommy had a great sense of humor and appreciated funny stories. His laughter was contagious. It was not uncommon to see him chuckle with such vigor that his entire body shook with laughter. With his passing, friends and family are left with sadness and a void that can never be filled. Though they miss him dearly, his loving memory and the sound of his infectious laughter lives forever in their hearts.

A celebration of Tommy's life will be held Sunday, June 7th at 2pm at Harwood Home for Funerals. The family will receive friends following the service. Interment to follow at Old Fort Cemetery on North Cemetery Street in Old Fort. Arrangements are in the care of Harwood Home for Funerals. www.harwoodhomeforfunerals.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Asheville Citizen-Times on Jun. 5, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
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Nancy Harris Turbyfill

June 6, 2015

Gail and Family, it made me so sad to learn about Tommy's passing,so I can only imagine the terrible pain you and the fam are experiencing at this time9. I wish I had a magic wand and could wave all the grief and hurt away but I can't. but I know Jesus and my prayer is that you and everyone else will feel His love and comfort now and in the days ahead. Blessings, Nancy Harris Turbyfill

Brenda Harton

June 6, 2015

Dear Edna Mae and family; We send our heartfelt sympathy and pray for your strength during this time. We love you. Cousin Brenda, Woody, and Andrew Harton

Amber Harwood

June 5, 2015

I will always miss & love you Uncle Tommy.you're in heaven now with daddy(Kenneth Harwood).although you are gone,you are laughing with him once again.I will always remember you.

Debbie Hamby

June 5, 2015

Edna Mae, Tab, Barry & family...Our hearts were broken when we heard of Tommy's passing. I cannot even begin to imagine the sorrow in your hearts, we love you all and Tommy. I will never forget when I was having morning sickness and he cooked my favorite...cornbread & stewed potatoes right on the grill! Such a kind, caring person. I know you all have wonderful memories that will never leave you...hold tight to those. Please know you are in our hearts & prayers. Love, Charles & Debbie Hamby

Judy Roberson

June 5, 2015

Edna and Family
Was so sorry to hear about Tommy. I did not know him but you shared to me what a good husband he was. My prayers are with you and for you.

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Harwood Home for Funerals and Cremation Services

208 W State Street, Black Mountain, NC 28711

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