RJ Bryan

RJ Bryan left his earthly body on January 5, 2024 at age 80. RJ was born on September 30, 1943 to Willie (Stockton) and JR Bryan. RJ married LaRetha Anderson on August 17, 1962. They were married for 61 years. RJ was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He proudly wore his title as Pappy! He enjoyed spending time outdoors with his grandkids hunting, fishing and riding four wheelers. He and his best friend in life, Bobby Jack Sprinkle, spent many hours fishing together. They were known to skip church to go fishing! RJ was well known in the concrete industry. He began concrete work as a young man and later started his own business, RJ Bryan Concrete Contractor. He was a man who dedicated his life to sharing his love for the Lord. He preached at Rock Tabernacle Church in his own back yard in Abilene, Tx. He also served as a guest preacher for multiple churches throughout the years. He was proud to baptize and officiate weddings for many of his grandkids. In their early years of marriage, RJ and Retha attended Calvary Baptist Church in Michigan where Bill Hayes was the preacher. Bill and his wife, Loretta, became lifelong friends with RJ and Retha. Pappy often talked about the little log cabin church where he got to shoutin’ for the Lord.
 

Preceded in death by his mother, Willie Bryan, father JR Bryan; Brothers: Bobby Bryan, Johnny Bryan, Danny Bryan, and Gene; Sisters: Geraldine Bryan, Peggy Ann Bryan, and daughter, Kimberly Rhynes.

Survived by his Wife, Retha Bryan; brother, Randall Bryan; Daughter, Deborah Walters and husband Donald; Son, Cody Bryan and wife Starr; Grandchildren: Ashely Street and husband Michael, Amber Hartness and husband Chris, Bryan Burnsed and wife Chanee, Randy Burnsed, Deidra Cox and husband Cally; Great grandchildren: Autumn Street, Tristan Street, Aspen Street, Michael Street, Helix Bryan, Huntley Bryan, Jesse Burnsed, Braden Burnsed, Pasen Cox; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be held at Starbuck Funeral Home in Merkel, Tx on January 8th from 6-8pm. Graveside service will be held at Rose Hill Cemetery in Merkel, Tx on January 9th at 1pm.

Pallbearers: Randy Burnsed, Bryan Burnsed, Cody Bryan, Scotty Brenem, Donald Walters, Cally Cox

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hendrick Hospice.

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