Jerry Bryant

On February 24, 1953, Wilbur and Bobby Bryant of Hartley, Texas, welcomed their third son Jerry Nelson Bryant into the world.  Jerry had a wonderful childhood on his parents’ farm that included many days and hours of playing with his brothers Steven, David, and George, while also becoming quite adept at horseback riding and horsemanship competition at a young age. Jerry developed a great and focused work ethic driving a tractor, feeding cattle, and working at Grandparents Harry and Neva Carlisle’s ranches east and west of Laverne, Oklahoma. While a student at Hartley High School, Jerry was a member of the basketball and track teams.  He was honored as Mr. Hartley High and named salutatorian of his 1971 graduating class. 

Jerry then attended West Texas State University in Canyon, Texas, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Ag/Economics.  At college, he also met and married Alesia Spears of Amarillo.  They were not only husband and wife, but also best friends and each other’s most devoted fans. As his wife, Alesia always felt safe, protected, and so greatly loved during their 51 years of marriage. Their favorite quote to each other and their family was and always will be “I’ll love you forever and a day!”

After college, the two moved back to Hartley where Jerry joined his dad and brothers in the family farming and cattle business until 1978 when Jerry and his brothers bought their dad’s partnership interest in the LaMunyon and Bryant Cattle Co. of Laverne. It was then that Jerry, Alesia, and son Jody (1977) moved to the east ranch outside of Laverne.  The comment by many friends was that no one leaves Texas to move to Oklahoma, but the Lord knew better, as He always does, and their treasured life in Laverne began.

In 1982, son Troy was born and the days of busy family, ranch, and community life became the norm.  Jerry was devoted as a father and mentor coaching t-ball, attending all of Jody and Troy’s school and sporting events, and spending true cowboy days in the arena teaching his sons and local youth how to rope and ride. His favorite time was spent working cattle and riding horses with both boys on the ranch, where he instilled in them the importance of a good work ethic and a true love of ranching life.  Most importantly, Jerry took the time to show his sons that a real man walks daily and humbly with the Lord, seeking His divine guidance in how business and personal life should be handled. 

At an early age, Jerry surrendered his life to Christ.  Jerry was a devoted 47-year member of the First Baptist Church of Laverne where he served as a deacon for the past 28 years. He loved his church family which offered him many opportunities to show his love for others with his humble, peaceful presence.

Jerry and Alesia’s family began to grow by adding two daughters-in-law, Bobbi (Ramirez) and Ashlee (Stallings). Those unions then blessed the family with four precious grandchildren, Britain, Dawson, Bray, and Berkley. His grandchildren affectionately called him “Grandad.” Jerry was extremely proud of his title and loved being an active part of all their activities. His love of the ranch life poured into their hearts too.

Jerry’s strength was on full display during his eight-year battle with Stage 4 lung cancer, all the while never complaining nor asking “why me.” He believed everything served a purpose, allowing for another miracle to be known. He was cancer-free. This battle and victory only made his and Alesia’s testimonies stronger.

In the early morning hours of August 14, Jerry peacefully fell asleep after a quick bout of pneumonia. We rest assured that he is healed and home with his Jesus. As his family and friends, we believe he heard our Lord’s calling “Welcome home, Cowboy.”

Jerry is survived by his wife Alesia of the home, his son Jody and wife Bobbi and their children Britain and Berkley Bryant; son Troy and wife Ashlee and their children Dawson and Bray Bryant all of Laverne; Brothers Steven, David (Kathie) and George Bryant; Aunt Betty Bryant Hudgins and Uncle Malcolm Bryant all of Texas. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whom he loved dearly.

With thanks to all family and friends, special thanks from Jerry’s crew to all the cowboys and cowgirls who worked and/or talked cattle or horses with Jerry. Lending a hand always mattered.