of Greenbrier, AR
June 22, 1938 - May 1, 2024
Bernie was born in Warren, AR to his Mother, Grace Castleberry Bryant and Father, HW (Pluto) Bryant. He spent his childhood in Helena, AR, where he grew up with his 8 siblings, each of whom he cherished dearly. This is also where he met the love of his life, Marion Kennemore. They married on June 22, 1963 at the First Baptist Church on Bernie's 25th birthday. This year they would've been celebrating 61 years of marriage together. Their family grew in 1965 when their daughter, Georgann was born, she has remained one of their greatest joys. Bernie graduated with his bachelor's of business from Monticello A&M (now the University of Arkansas at Monticello). He worked as a Kmart manager for over 30 years. He loved his career and all the adventures it brought him and his family as they moved across Arkansas, Texas and New Mexico. He and Marion adventured around New Mexico before permanently moving to Greenbrier, AR to be near his siblings. He was an avid gardener, fisher and civil war buff - He and Marion would care for their garden every spring and fish with family at the nearby ponds. Bernie was always learning and reading. He was a wealth of knowledge, especially when it came to history about the civil war, the southwest, or the blues. In retirement he got to spend lots of time with his daughter and her family. He especially cherished the many trips and holidays spent together. He was an incredible brother, husband, father, grandpa and friend. He was kind, encouraging, funny, hardworking, welcoming and brave. He's the warmest person and loved with all his heart, without hesitation or restraint. He loved fully, generously, completely.
He is preceded by his brothers, WA, Kenith, Calvin, Travis; His sister, Ida Bell and daughter, Kathy Ann
He is survived by his wife, Marion; daughter, Georgann Whitley; son-in-law, Todd; grandkids, Madison & Morgan; Sisters, Willie Jane Bryant, Wanda Proctor, Barbara Neely (and her husband, Gene) and so many loved ones including numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate to Samaritan's Purse and Gideons International.
Funeral Service will be 11:00AM Wednesday, May 8th at Roller McNutt Funeral Home in Greenbrier. Arkansas. Visitation will begin one hour prior at 10:00AM.
Our deepest sympathy to you, Barbara, and all the family. May God hold you close in his loving arms and ease your pain.
Uncle Bernard was such a sweet nice man! I always enjoyed visiting him he would always make me laugh. I will miss his posts of beautiful birds! May you fly peacefully in heaven! Love and prayers for Marion Georgann and family!
I’m so sorry for the passing of Mr. Bernard. I thought the world of him!! He was so interesting to talk to and visit with!! I will miss him!! Ms. Marion, please know you and your Family are in my thoughts and prayers!! Love you
He was a wonderful person that will greatly missed by all who knew him. Prayers of comfort for alll the family.
Sorry for your loss. Bernard will be missed . Loved to go fishing with him..
Love Virginia Mae
Condolences and prayers. May God provide the family comfort and peace.
Uncle B, you will be greatly missed! I always considered you my " brother " and remember the time you lived with us and teased us terribly! You always made sure I got one of your large tomatoes that covered a slice of bread for my annual BLT! I'm going to miss your hugs but know Mom is waiting for you to join her in heaven! Aunt Marion, I'm sorry for your loss and you will always be in my prayers. I pray God grants you peace! Much love to all my family! Marcia Van V
Prayers of comfort for all of you. Much love sent your way
So sorry for your loss! Praise God he is happy and has no pain or sorrow.