Hilda Bryant Obituary

In Loving Memory of

Hilda Lee Bryant

November 21, 1931 – July 12, 2025

With heavy hearts, we celebrate the life of Hilda Lee Bryant, who passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, at the age of 93. A beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Hilda was a true “steel magnolia”. She was graceful, strong, and deeply rooted in her faith.

Born on November 21, 1931, to Leland and Naomi Jones, Hilda lived a rich and purposeful life. She had a deep love for nature, gardening, and the quiet beauty of simple living. She passed down her knowledge of plants, the joy of fishing and shelling peas, and the importance of slowing down and savoring the world around us. She was also an avid reader, and her lifelong love of books reflected her curious mind and quiet strength. Her yard is a beautiful labor of love yielding colorful flowers blooming every season.

A woman of unwavering faith, Hilda was a lifelong member of McDowell Road Baptist Church until it closed, after which she joined First Baptist Church of Terry. There, she faithfully taught Sunday school and formed many treasured friendships. She shared her home grown produce with the church and the community. Her favorite Bible verse, Proverbs 3:5–6, was a guiding light in her life and appeared in every card she sent:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.”

She and her sister, Betty, ended each day the same way catching up over the phone before bed, sharing laughter, love, and life’s little details.

Hilda was preceded in death by her parents, Leland and Naomi Jones; her loving husband, Joe Marvin Bryant; and her brothers, Loyd Jones and J.T. Jones.

She is survived by her sister, Betty Cliburn of Byram (Henry); her sisters in love, Beck Bryant Boleware and Libby Bryant; her children, Naomi Stevens (Ken) and Tim Bryant (Rana); her grandchildren, Joanna Stevens, Mary Johnson (Jonathon), Joe Bryant, Anna Blaire Bryant, and Isabella Bryant; and her beloved nieces and nephews: John Paul Cliburn, Brin Jones, Johnny Jones, Renee Jones, Vicki Jones, Jennie Coleman, Becky Bryant, Ricky Bryant, Margaret Bryant, Kevin Bryant and Bryant Coward. She also leaves behind a multitude of extended family and cherished friends.