Deacon Willie Phillip Bryant, affectionately known as “Horse” and “DJ Terminator,” was born on March 11, 1966, to Willie Lee and Willie Pearl Bryant. He confessed his love for Christ at an early age and joined First Baptist in Sawyerville, where he served under the leadership of several pastors. Later he moved his membership to First Baptist Church, Akron, where he continued to faithfully worship God. He served as assistant superintendent, lead teacher of the adult Sunday school class and a member of the Laymen Ministry. He was always willing to serve and freely participate at events in the Town of Akron, where he was deemed the Town DJ.
On Wednesday, August 12, Deacon Bryant gained his angel wings. He was a “real” man gifted with many talents. His wisdom, inspirational voice and kind heart touched and shaped the lives of countless people near and far. His voice was big, and it filled any space he occupied, especially at his children and grandchildren’s sporting events.
To continue his legacy and cherish precious memories, Deacon Bryant leaves behind his high school sweetheart of five years and devoted wife of 40 years, Teresa Jeffery Bryant; two sons, Marcus (Jessica) Bryant and Phillip (Jamie) Bryant; one daughter, Terria Bryant; five adorable grandchildren whom he loved dearly, Marcus Jr., BonnieCristine, Jesslyn, Mason, and A’Jhourni; parents, Willie Lee and Willie Pearl Bryant; one brother, Ezzard Bryant; five sisters, Doris Bryant, Wilma Page, Brenda Williams, Varrie (Everly) Byrd, and Eva Greene; twelve sisters-in-law and seven brothers-in-law, Patricia (Marvin) Turner, Sarah Hall, Brenda Hall, Delois (Johnnie) Collins, Mattie Spraddling, Delois Holifield, Loretta Jackson, Alvin (Mary) Jeffery, Robert (Evelyn) Jeffery, Nathaniel (Carolyn) Jackson, and Willie (Ursula) Tubbs; special nieces and nephews, ShaRonda, Princess, Star, Trishana, Joeva, Briana, Clarissa, Calewka, Quinxarious, McArthur and Joey; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and acquaintances.
A celebration of life for Deacon Bryant was held at noon Saturday, August 29, at Bass Tabernacle C.M.E. Church, 22890 County Road 32, Akron, with the Rev. Dr. Clarence L. Gary of First Baptist Church, Akron, officiating.
