Sylvia Jean (Wilson) Bryant

Sylvia Jean Wilson Bryant, a devoted mother, grandmother and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025, after a long and courageous journey with cancer. She was surrounded by the love of her family.

Born September 18, 1960, in O’Donnell, Texas to Alonzo & Elise Wilson. She graduated from Garrison High School and continued her education at Kilgore College. It was after college that she met the charming Romeo Bryant, whom she married in 1983. In addition to becoming a second mom to Romeo’s children, Romeo Jr. & Shelisha “Tina” they welcomed their daughter, Michelle Dyan Bryant, who became her dedicated caregiver in her last years.

Sylvia built a successful career, starting in administration at Rose State College before moving to IBM and then Fleming Foods. She found her professional home at the Oklahoma State Regents Board for Higher Education, where she retired after 20 years of dedicated service. As her colleagues fondly recall, Sylvia was a vibrant and essential presence-she “knew everyone in the building and practically ran the 3rd floor.”

Sylvia lived a life filled with grace, kindness, and compassion. Her greatest joy was caring for her family and spending time with her beloved grandchildren, who were truly the light of her life. With a lovely smile that could brighten any room, Sylvia possessed a welcoming heart for everyone she met. She will be remembered for her caring words, gentle strength, and the special way she made every person feel valued and loved.

Sylvia is survived by her loving husband of 42 years, Romeo Bryant, her children, Michelle Dyan Bryant, Romeo Harding (Mariana Navas) Bryant, Jr., and Shelisha “Tina” Marie (Kenneth Jamil) Jackson, and she was a cherished “Nana Jean” to eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her devoted siblings Verna Faye Christopher, Dorothy Ray Walker, Louise Bell, Alonza (Brenda) Wilson, Jr., Thomas Earl (Janice) Wilson, and a host of beloved nieces & nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents Alonzo & Elise Wilson, her siblings Joe Charles Davis & Teresa Wilson, brothers in-law Preston Christopher & James Lee Bell, and sister in-law Jo Lovette Holmes Wilson.

She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

“Sylvia’s Garden in Heaven”

Mama, our sweetest bloom,

You filled our hearts and lit the room.

Your gentle hands, your caring way,

Still guide our lives from day to day.

Heaven’s garden blooms so fair,

Because your love is growing there.

Though we miss your smile so bright,

Your spirit shines in heaven’s light.