Richard Bryant

Richard Arlon Bryant passed away on Jan. 21, 2024 after an extended illness at his home in Mart, Tx. He was born September. 21, 1934 in Coahoma, Tx.  His parents were Cherry Soloman Bryant and Tylene Bryant. His early years were spent in the Virgin Islands with his aunt and uncle. After WWII he returned with his family to their ranch San Estavan in Marfa, Tx. He spent his youth singing in a local C&W band, rodeoing, and working on the film set of Giant.

He graduated from Marfa High School, attended Texas Western University and later the University of New Orleans.

Richard met his future wife, Ann Walker, the daughter of the local Methodist minister. They were married in June 1958 and welcomed their daughter, Viki a year later.

Richard joined the USAF and was stationed in Denver, CO, Langly AFB, McGuire AFB, and England AFB as a flight simulator instructor and operator for the F102. After leaving active duty he joined the Louisiana National Guard.

While in New Orleans, he worked for Chrysler Corp. Space Division working on the Apollo Program and later in the oil industry as a Manufacturing Rep. for Hoke Co. and Regional Manager for Valve Systems Co.

Richard, Ann, and Viki lived in New Orleans until his retirement, when they moved to Mart, Texas. They bought the Western Motel. Always active in local life of the town, serving terms as City Councilman and later Mayor.

Richard...who is known as King to all who loved him, is survived by his wife, Ann; daughter, Viki and partner, Pat Rupert; grandsons, Ben Bale of Vancouver BC, Brian Bale and wife, Michelle; great grandson and namesake, Jack Richard Bale of Austin; brother in law, Richard Walker and his partner, Janice Thompson; Susan Walker Guenther and husband, Eric; and niece, Emily Walker.

Richard loved the Bid Bend, taking Ben and Brian there often. He taught them all of his "old Indian tricks" and they said ..."King teaches them all they needed to know". They were the light of his life.

Visitation will be Saturday, January 27, 2024 from 2-3:00pm with the funeral service at 3:00pm at Littlepage Funeral Home Chapel in Mart, Texas.