Roy Tenvel Bryant

Roy T. Bryant Born July 7, 1927, in Wellston, Oklahoma, to Minnie (Dandridge) and Zach Bryant, Roy Bryant peacefully entered eternal rest in the early morning hours of September 14, 2025. Roy was the third of six children, and from an early age he learned the importance of hard work, family, and perseverance after the untimely passing of his father. Though times were often difficult, he took pride in how his family pulled together to make ends meet, leaning on each other and never losing sight of building a better life. He began working at a young age, first in kitchens, where he discovered his gift for cooking. After serving in the U.S. Navy, Roy returned to Chickasha, where he married the love of his life, Clara Blunt. Together, they built a marriage that spanned 78 years and raised eight children. Roy believed in the dignity of hard work and provided tirelessly for his family, often raising hogs and cattle or working extra jobs to ensure his children had what they needed. His career in food service took a transformative turn when he joined the Holiday Inn in Chickasha, where he sharpened the skills that would one day make him a successful business owner. In 1972, he and Clara, along with several of their children, opened Roy's BBQ on Missouri Avenue. From those humble beginnings grew a beloved community landmark known for its award-winning barbecue, waffle fries, and tangy sauce. For decades, guests came from near and far not just for the food, but for the warmth and welcome Roy and Clara poured into every meal. They continued to operate the restaurant until their retirement in 2022, a true family legacy. Roy's love for his community extended well beyond his restaurant doors. He gave generously of his time and talents, cooking and catering for reunions, celebrations, church events, and civic gatherings. He was a faithful member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church, where he cherished his fellowship with others and especially enjoyed singing with the Chickasha Men's Choir. A man of many stories, Roy had a gift for weaving fact and fiction together in a way that kept everyone laughing, learning, and leaning in. He loved gospel and blues music, and he loved people-often spending quiet moments at the restaurant visiting with customers, sharing encouragement, and leaving them with a smile. Above all else, Roy was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 78 years, Clara; his children, Willie Bryant, Leroy Bryant, Jan Hilburn (Julius), Vanessa Palmer, Wanez Fletcher (Amiel), Pam Ates, Felicia Graham (Michael) and Chris Bryant; grandchildren Russett Johnson, Nashema Simpson (Rick), Rodney Ates, Amiel LaTour Fletcher, Aveirial Johnson, Deidre Johnson, Romby Bryant (Melissa), Bryan Hilburn (Tiffany), Kenan Palmer, Brandon Bryant, Chaundra Bryant, Jillian Benson (Lenny), Justin Hilburn, Nikita Johnson (Andre), Tasheka Bryant, Willie Bryant, Robin Hood, and Chancelor Graham; as well as scores of great-grandchildren, extended family, and countless friends who were touched by his kindness and strength. He is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Fred, Vernon, T.J., and Russell, and his sister Opal. The Bryant family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the many caregivers who so lovingly supported Roy in his final days.