Barbara Jean Bryant

Barbara Jean Pace-Bryant, 78, was called home to be with our Lord and Savior on December 2, 2025. She was born on July 13, 1947, to her loving mother, Lovie A. Pace (103), and the late Joshua Pace. Barbara was also a proud graduate of Harris High School, Class of 1965.
Barbara was a dedicated member of Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church, faithfully serving in the kitchen ministry, seasoning every meal with love and making sure nobody left hungry. She also served with pride in the PHMBC Mission Ministry and was an active participant in Wednesday Night Bible Study.
Throughout her life, Barbara worked in several fields, including upholstery, Target warehouse, and Head Start, but she found her calling at Maumelle Middle School, where she retired. Cooking for the students and staff brought her great joy, and many lovingly knew her as "Mama" or "Grandmama."
Barbara was known not only for her strength, humor, and compassion, but also for her famous motto: "Get Over It." Whether you needed tough love, a reality check, or a push to keep going, she had a way of giving you the truth with love.
On May 20, 1966, Barbara married the love of her life, Ivory Bryant. Their union was blessed with three children, and together they also helped raise Marjorie Pace and Lee Greene, whom they loved as their own.
Barbara leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband of 59 years, Ivory Bryant; her mother, Lovie Arrealure Pace; her daughters, Angela Bryant-Palmer (Carvis) and Rosalind Bryant-Williams (Gary); and her son, Ivory B. Bryant (Kari).
She is also survived by her siblings: Pastor Walter Pace (Katie), James Pace (Mary), Donald Pace, and Karon Pace-Gray (Paul). Her beloved in-laws include: Rev. Dr. Frank Bryant Jr. (Irene), Floyd Bryant (Joyce), Benjamin Bryant (Ioma), Michael Bryant (Francis), Frankie Jean Bryant-Credit (late Rev J.C. Credit), Willie Bryant (Gennie), and Mildred Bryant (late Jimmy Bryant).
Barbara's legacy continues through her grandchildren: Darryl K. Wilkins Jr., Corinthian Williams, Garrison Williams, Caron Brown (DeVonte'), Kalon Palmer, Zane Bryant, Jase Bryant, Carvis Palmer Jr., Uriah McClure, and J.P. Greene, along with a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who loved her dearly.
Barbara also leaves behind special friends and honorary family members who held a cherished place in her heart: Xiomara Greene, Beverly Miller (Sonny), and Amanda Regina Tims.