James Thomas Bryant

James "Jim" Thomas Bryant of Brooker, FL passed away peacefully on May 23, 2023, with his loving family by his side. He was born on May 3, 1944, in Heflin, Alabama to Jasper and Virginia Bryant. Jim is survived by his wife of 52 years, Mary "Libby" Bryant of Brooker, daughter Pam (Robert) Johnson of LaCrosse, granddaughter Macey Johnson, siblings Helen Childers, Arthur (Diane) Bryant, and Jimmy E. Bryant; sister-in-law Shirley (Richard) Nipper; brother-in-law Barry (Brenda) Eldon. Jim is preceded in death by his parents and brother John David; brother-in-law Les Childers; and nephew Vince Childers. Jim loved his siblings, nieces, nephews and remained very close to his family in Alabama, Florida, England, and Nova Scotia.  
 
He was a man of integrity and honor. He proudly served two terms in the United States Army, stationed in Germany and Korea.  He was a paratrooper and loved the thrill of jumping out of planes and flying.  Jim retired from ITT Rayonier and Alachua County Public Works as District Supervisor. Jim was fearless!  He was a cave diver and ocean diver, coming face-to-face with sharks on many occasions.  Jim and a long-term friend established a dive charter business for several years. He obtained his sea captain's license which he was very proud of. There was no limit to his tenacity for danger and adventure.  He was an avid reader and eager to increase his knowledge, no matter the topic.  He especially loved history. Jim also had a passion for restoring antique cars, and a love for listening to all genres of music from Pavarotti to Cajun! Anyone who knew Jim knew how much his loved the Alabama Crimson Tide. He could talk endlessly about his team and Bear Bryant. 

A memorial service will be held on May 26, 2023, at Brooker Baptist Church in honor of Jim's life. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be at Dedan Cemetery, Brooker, Florida. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com