Edna Bryant Estes

Edna Bryant Estes, a loving mother, devoted grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2024 at the age of 99. She was born on April 8, 1925, in Atlanta, Georgia to Jessie and Adolphus Merritt. She lived in Georgia all of her life and spent her life weaving a tapestry of warmth, creativity, and love that touched everyone around her.

Edna was known for her sweet nature and adventurous spirit, always ready to explore new hobbies. She delighted in jigsaw and crossword puzzles, painting, baking, and basket-weaving, embodying the joy of living life to the fullest. If a family member or friend called and said "do you want to go..." she always said yes even before she knew where she was invited. 

As an adult, Edna was a dedicated homemaker, creating a nurturing environment for her husband and two daughters. Prior to starting her family, she proudly served as a riveter during war times, and later was a keypunch operator for the Railroad. Edna met her husband, Donald Edward Bryant, through mutual friends, and they shared a wonderful marriage until his passing in 1987. After his passing, she was married to Bruce Edward Estes for 25 years. These unions were a testament to companionship, and love.

Edna is survived by her loving daughters, Joy Farris and her husband, Rodney, Becky Nix and her husband Rick, who carry forward her legacy of kindness and strength. She cherished her eight grandchildren Haley (Gordon), Jordan (Jennifer), Jesse (Ashley), Jacob (Jenny), Joseph (Melissa), Ryley (Douglas), Rebekah and Rachel and thirteen great-grandchildren (Jesse (Jaidyn), Alex (Nick), Micah, Aubrey, Ellie, Emmy, Hannah, Dottie, Archie, Lilah, Willis, Amos and Truett), pouring her love into each generation and creating family traditions that will be cherished forever.

Edna's early education included graduating from Milner High School and taking some college courses, showcasing her commitment to learning and personal growth throughout her life. Her ambition and passion for exploring new horizons were evident in everything she did.

Family and friends are invited to honor Edna's life during a visitation on September 27, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service beginning at 2:00 PM at West Cobb Funeral Home & Crematory, located at 2480 Macland Road, Marietta, GA, 30064. As we remember Edna, let us embrace her spirit of adventure, her creativity, and the love she poured into her family and friendships. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, a gentle reminder that life is to be celebrated with sweetness and courage.