James (Jim) Bryant

James “Jim” Bryant, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away at the age of 85. Born on November 5, 1939, in Mountain Home, Arkansas, Jim was the son of Kenneth and Virginia Bryant. During his senior year, his family moved to Nixa, Missouri, where he graduated with the Nixa High School Class of 1957.

 Jim worked four summers along side his dad as an iron worker to pay for college. Jim continued his education at Southwest Missouri State University, earning degrees in Agriculture and Business. Following college, he began working for Kraft Foods, where he was offered the opportunity to manage a cheese plant in New York City. While he enjoyed the trip and the scenery, Jim decided against moving, choosing instead to remain in Nixa close to his new girlfriend—later his wife of 59 years—and his love for his hometown. After five years with Kraft, Jim accepted a position with the Springfield City Health Department, where he worked as a Grade A Milk Inspector for over 36 years. A dedicated and highly regarded employee, he received numerous awards for his outstanding service.

 Jim was a passionate advocate for his community. He served on the Nixa School Board, where he helped secure land for the construction of schools and was instrumental in establishing the school’s football program. Together with Howard Pyle, he made a memorable trip to St. Louis to haul a trailer of bleachers back to Nixa for the first football field. A steadfast supporter of Nixa Future Farmers of America, Jim and Ilene were honored with a Chapter Farmer Award.

 Jim’s talents and love of cooking were well-known, especially at the Nixa Sucker Day festivities, where he could often be found frying fish with expert skill. Nothing brought him more joy than hosting gatherings at his home, cooking his famous sucker fish freshly snagged or gigged from the Finley River or Bull Creek alongside his sons.

 Jim loved the great outdoors, whether it was deer hunting with his sons, elk hunting in Colorado, or fishing trips to Canada with friends. He enjoyed tending his cattle farm and cherished walks in the woods. His sons’ hunting trophies are a testament to the memories they shared in the field together.

 Jim proudly served his country in the Army Reserves for six years. After retiring, he devoted over 18 years to volunteering at the Nixa Senior Citizens Center, delivering meals to homebound seniors until his health prevented him from continuing.

 Jim treasured family vacations, despite the frequent chorus of "How much further is it?" from his young sons. He was a dedicated father and grandfather, attending his kids’ and grandkids’ sporting events and even coaching his sons’ Little League teams. Friday nights were often spent playing Rook with friends, where laughter and camaraderie were always present.

 A natural storyteller and people person, Jim loved meeting new people and hearing their stories. He often began conversations with, "Tell me all about yourself and how did you get your start?" He found joy in making others laugh, saying, "If I can make one person laugh long enough to forget their problems, then my day was not wasted."

 Jim’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. Baptized in the James River on July 17, 1977, by Pastor Joe Fahl, he was an active member of North Nixa Baptist Church. Known for his "Dad Joke of the Week," he greeted everyone with warmth and humor.

 Jim leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and service. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife Ilene (Kellett) Bryant; his two sons, Shawn Bryant and Shannon Bryant, both of Nixa; his granddaughters, Savannah and Sierra Bryant; his grandson, Easton Bryant; his brother, Jerry (Lynnette) Bryant; his sisters, Patsy (Stephen) Hedgpeth and Judy (Paul) Moore; his sister-in-law, Jean (Neal) Farnham of St. Louis; as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Virginia Bryant, and his brother, Jack Bryant.

 Jim’s words, found in one of his diaries, offer a glimpse into his kind and thoughtful heart: "As I travel through life, I have found the real people are the ones that are truly interested in making lives better." Jim was undeniably one of those “real people,” and his memory will continue to inspire all who knew him.

 In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Nixa Senior Center, Glenn Cemetery, Least of These, North Nixa Baptist Church, or the charity of your choice.

A Funeral Service will be held 11:00 AM, Saturday, January 11, 2025, at Adams Funeral Home, Nixa, Missouri with Pastor Travis Edwards officiating. Visitation will precede the service at 10:00 AM.  A Graveside Service will follow the Funeral Service at Glenn Cemetery, Nixa, Missouri.