“I have started for a place called Heaven”.

These were not only the opening lyrics to the song Daddy sang thousands of times, but also the words of his heart and life. 

Johnny Cameron Bryant, Sr. passed from this earth to enter Heaven’s glory on Friday July 26, 2024. Daddy was born on September 27, 1943 to Elwood Carlyle and Sarah Mizelle Bryant. Affectionately known as Cottontop to family and those in the tiny community of Askewville, Daddy spent his childhood helping his daddy with horses and roaming the farm of his grandfather, two loves that he never forgot. He also spent his childhood inside the walls of Askewville Assembly of God where his mother instilled a love for the Christian faith that has carried him all the days of his life.

From early on Daddy had a love for music and a voice that could fill any room. This love of music carried him far and wide sharing the gospel in song and preaching God’s word. From early years singing with his mother and her siblings as Johnny Bryant & the Mizelle Sisters to several solo recordings Daddy forever loved music. This same love for music lead to a career in radio that spanned five decades. Bringing some of the biggest names in gospel music to eastern North Carolina. As owner and operator of Lifeline Ministries, Daddy operated WIAM 900 AM, WDRP 98.9 and WGTI 97.5. In 2008 he was recognized by the Singing News with their Golden Mic Award. This award recognized him for excellence in supporting and promoting Southern Gospel Music.

Throughout his years in radio Daddy was a huge supporter of local athletics. Whether the local rec league or school ball, Daddy was proud to support local athletes and carry their games on the air. He was recognized in 2003 by Williamston Youth Baseball. And again in 2004 by Williamston High School athletics recognizing him as “The Voice of the Tigers”. Outside of athletics Daddy loved politics. This was evident whether around the “round table with the boys” or sitting in his recliner every evening watching FOX news. He was always keeping up with what was going on. Daddy proudly served on the Martin County Board of Education from 2006-2010.

Daddy was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Frances Annette Bryant, his father and mother-in-law, Roy and Rosa Bowen, brothers Elbert Ray (Martha), Julian (Patsy), and brothers- in-law, Billy Ray Todd, Wayne Bowen, and Samuel Taylor.

Daddy is survived by his wife of 41 years, Trudy Bowen Bryant and children Johnny (Jay) Cameron Bryant Jr. and wife Christi, Christa Bryant Dally (Danny), Michael Cameron Bryant (Debbie), Stephen McClain Bryant (Ashley). He is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Also surviving are his sisters Geraldine Todd of Askewville, NC, Patricia (Ann) Taylor of Dowling Park, FL, and brother-in-law Randy (Lisa) Bowen of Williamston, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A true family man, Daddy took great pride in his children and grandchildren. Never missing a chance to watch Easton, Cameron, Tyler, Laney, Avery or Aubrey doing the things they loved. From the ball field, to dance recitals, or showing pigs in the 4H arena Daddy was there to love on his grandkids and show them support.

Funeral services will be held at 2pm Tuesday July 30th, 2024 at the Greenville First Pentecostal Holiness Church. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

The family wishes to thank everyone from all of their love, support and prayers during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to:

Pitt County Young Life,

P O Box 3738

Greenville, NC 27836

Griffins Township Vol. Fire Dept.

5120 Fire Dept. Rd

Williamston, NC 27892

Williamson Fire/Rescue/EMS

P O Box 602

Williamston, NC 27892