J.R. Bryant, 97, of Ypsilanti, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on November 2, 2026, surrounded by his four loving children.

Born on April 7, 1929, in Middlesboro, Kentucky, J.R. was the son of Rosco Franklin and Bessie Victoria Bryant and one of 12 children. He made his way to Michigan, where he would call Ypsilanti home for more than 70 years.

J.R. shared more than 60 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Doris (Flint) Bryant, who preceded him in death in 2014.

A proud United States Army veteran, J.R. served in Germany during the Korean War era. Following his military service, he enjoyed a long career with Ford Motor Company as a truck driver, retiring in 1994. He was a proud member of the United Auto Workers (UAW) and formed many lifelong friendships throughout his career.

Retirement brought the discovery of new talents and passions. A gifted self-taught artist and woodworker, J.R. created beautiful paintings, handcrafted birdhouses, and intricate replicas of homes. He took immense pride in his garden and landscaping, with a particular fondness for collecting rocks and using them to build stone borders and walls. An avid reader with a curious mind, he loved discussing world politics, keeping up with popular culture, and mastering even the most challenging jigsaw puzzles. He was a man of many interests who never stopped learning, creating, or finding joy in the world around him.

Above all, J.R. was a devoted family man. His greatest joy was being surrounded by his children, seven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. He was a loving grandfather and great-grandfather whose presence, wisdom, humor, and many talents left a lasting impression on the generations that followed.

J.R. is survived by his four children: Jonnie Arnette Bryant (Mark Namatevs), Jay Arnold Bryant, Vivian Eleanor Bryant, and Ann Marie Bryant-Moody (Raymond); his seven grandchildren: Brittaney Bryant (Randall), Zachery Bryant (Bradley), Jane Janiga, M.D. (Michael Janiga, M.D.), Alex Namatevs (Scott Brakora), Charles Schumacher (Michelle), Avery Namatevs, and Jack Schumacher; and his seven great-grandchildren: Chase Koepp, Ayden Priess, Eleanor and Eden Schumacher, Sonny Doris Brakora, and James and Theodore Janiga.

He is also survived by his loving brother, Larry Bryant; sister, Dana Jarrett; and his cherished canine companion, Toby.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Doris, as well as five brothers and four sisters.

J.R. will be remembered for his generous heart, quick humor, enduring friendships, and the beautiful life he built for his family. His legacy lives on in the generations he helped shape, the stories he shared, and the countless memories he leaves behind.

The family celebrated his life with a private service.