Clarence L. Bryant, 94, affectionately known to family and friends as "Sammy" passed away at St. Luke's Hospital on January 16, 2021 after a long battle with multiple strokes and dementia.
He was born in White Oak, NC to Fodie Irene (Melvin) and John Albert Bryant.
He settled in New Bedford with his beloved wife of 64 years Niela (Eldridge) in 1957 after leaving the Navy where he proudly served for over 13 years.
Clarence was a veteran of WWII and the Koren War. He was also responsible for skillfully training many recruits at the training center in Ashville, NC at the end of his service.
After his military service was completed he worked at Berkshire Hathaway for 33 years until their closing. He then worked as a custodian for the YWCA and the Standish House until his retirement.
Clarence was a man of great faith and was a member of First Baptist Church and also attended North Baptist Church for over 20 years until his health prevented him from attending services.
He was an avid reader and averaged 3-4 books per week before his illness. He could be found at least once a week downtown at the main branch of the New Bedford Free Public Library.
He loved the New York Yankees and attended many games until he became disillusioned with professional sports. However, he loved his Alabama Crimson Tide football team and was a fan for life.
Clarence never lost his love for being on and near the water and passed this passion to his son. He loved visiting Newport and Battleship Cove. Above all he loved his wife and his family.
Besides his wife, he is survived by his son Sam and his wife Doria, and his daughter Phyllis Irene Bryant; four grandchildren, Logan Wood, Sterling Jalette and her husband Randy, Heather Bryant and her wife Ashley, and Kennedy Bryant. He is also survived by his great-grandson Jasper James Wood, and several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his brothers Milton, Harry, William, James, and Rodney and his sister Annie Lou Vaughn.
In lieu of flowers it was his request for donations to be made to the D.A.V. Chapter 7, 19 Willis St., New Bedford, MA 02740
A memorial service will be held at a later date. For online guestbook please visit www.saundersdwyer.com