William A. Bryant , Sr.

A Quiet , Driven, Man of God.

By Dr. Robert Bryant

Mr. William A. Bryant, Sr. was a change agent who was born and raised in Savannah, GA. He and his brother, Crawford Bryant, grew up in East Savannah on Missouri Avenue during the deep depression and ragging segregation Mr Bryant, as he was known by many, was a curious person who enjoyed laughter, learning, and serving His childhood was met with challenges due to segregation, making the amenities of today something unattainable He lived through the ?colored?water fountains and policies used to make Black people feel less than. There were days when he and his brother would go without basic needs such as food, shoes, and money ? as was the case for many Black people throughout Savannah and the nation. He shared the pains of segregation with his family and to those who listened, calling it ?the worst thing to happen to the country ?

His father would die of heartbreak due to the harsh realities of segregation At the young age of 8, William witnessed his father die of heartbreak His father was terminated by his employer so the same job could be given to a white man This is just one of many realities that many people endured due to segregation and Jim Crow laws, especially in the south. In fact, a penny or a nickel was like gold during this era because the economy was experiencing major setbacks. The deep depression was most significant on the Black community due to the climate of the nation, in addition to an economic system that further disenfranchised the community

William enjoyed learning and was consistent with advocating to younger adults about getting an education. He often talked about how the value of a high school and college education or seeking a trade (i.e. plumbing, carpentry, electrician) is for a well-sustained life. His love for education motivated him to earn a degree in mathematics from Savannah State College. After a short experience with teaching, he became a United States Letter Carrier and retired after a 30 year career His knowledge spanned beyond the book, given his skills with electrical wiring, brick masonry, and automotive repair ? helping him to stay committed to his value for saving money

Service was an important part of his life William Bryant was one of few Black Eagle Scouts in Savannah during that era, and he later would become a Boy Scout Troop Advisor in the city he adored He worked in collaboration with other men at St Benedict the Moor Catholic Church to support youth development programs. His work with the Knights of Columbus and the local union were very important to him, given his belief in helping others grow and learn. His most cherished service opportunity was serving as a communion minister for the sick and shut in of his church. Each Sunday he would visit up to 15 homes, all 3 local hospitals, nursing homes, and other locations to make sure the elderly and sick could receive communion He loved people

Mr. Bryant was a fun and down to earth man, however, he was serious about his wife and family. He met Odessa White when he was at Savannah State and married her prior to being drafted by the United States Army He always was happy to say, ?we never talked loud or harsh to one another and we would never dream of hitting the other.? For close to 70 years, they created a family with 2 boys and constructed one of the first homes in Liberty City.

He developed much of his way of being, from WW Law and his godfather, Mr. White. William?s life teaches us many things, however, these three things he offered to me

2) family is important during the good and the bad times, and

1) love people and help where you can,

3) when God guides you then all things remain well On this father?s day, I give honor to the man that taught me all that I know, who pour into me, who encouraged me to attain a higher degree of education, who pushed me without breaking me, and who loved me without conditions To make a good man, it takes a good man to mold him Thank you Daddy, for molding the clay