Arbutus Barker Bryant, age 99 of Dunlap TN passed away on March 16, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Dunlap TN on February 5, 1925, the daughter of the late Henry and Ethel Barker. Those who knew Arbutus will remember her for her selflessness, generosity and fierce loyalty to family and friends.

In addition to her parents, Henry and Ethel Barker, she was preceded in death by her husband of 77 years Carlyle Bryant; brothers, Standefer (Corine) Barker, Lewis (Mary Ellen) Barker, Wallace (Dot) Barker and Sam Wilson (Faye) Barker; sisters, Beatrice May (Lawrence) Hobbs and Trula Bell Williams; mother and father-in-law, George and Gladys Bryant; sisters-in-law, Jeneane (Herbert) Payne and Rena Mae Barker.

Survivors include five children, Charlotte Darnell, Colleen Davis, Richard (Rachel) Bryant, Jean Bryant and Debbie (Jimmy) Thompson; grandchildren, Bryan (Kelly) Darnell, Elaine (Barri) Harper, Robert (Marsi) Davis, Jennifer Davis, April Bryant, Tim (Cortney) Bryant, Alan Bryant, Stephen (Nicole) Thompson, Jeana (Simon) Milazzo; great grandchildren, Ashley Darnell, Reagan Darnell, Andrew Darnell, Spencer (Lauren) Harper, Isabel Harper, Virginia Precise, Sydney Bryant, Connor Bryant, Ayden Bryant, Ellen Milazzo, Sal Milazzo, Nova Thompson ; brother, Burnette Barker; sister-in-law, Eleanor (Ernest) Kelley along with several nieces, nephews and cousins. Special friend, Anna Faye Heard. 

Arbutus was a star basketball player at Sequatchie County High School. She was named outstanding player of the 1941 regional tournament, where a sports columnist nicknamed her "Jumping Jack"

She was a member of the Dunlap First Baptist Church where she cherished her position as a nursery worker for over 30 years and was affectionately called Miss Arbutus. She was a member of the PTA serving as President for many years, active in the Sequatchie County Band Boosters, worked as a clerk at elections and volunteered at 4th of July celebrations.

Her personal life was filled with varied activities including running a projector at the theater and driving a semi-truck across country. She really loved being a bookkeeper at Bryant Oil Company for over 50 years. Her love for sports continued into her adult life as she enjoyed playing basketball, softball, volleyball and snow skiing. The most important part of her life was her husband, children and grandchildren, She never missed their band concerts, sports activities, plays and other functions. 

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at 1:00 PM in the chapel of Ewton Funeral Home & Cremation Center with Bro. Terry Barker, Elaine Harper, Jennifer Davis and Isabel Harper all participating in the service. Interment will follow in Chapel Hill Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers will be Bryan Darnell, Robert Davis, Tim Bryant, Stephen Thompson, Alan Bryant and Spencer Harper. Family will receive friends Monday from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM.

Ewton Funeral Home & Cremation Center is in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Arbutus Barker Bryant and ask that you share your memories and condolences for her family on our website at www.ewtonfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Pat Summit Foundation P.O. Box 651 Dunlap TN 37327 or Dunlap First Baptist Church.