Minnie G Bryant

Beloved by all who were fortunate to meet her, Minnie Grant Bryant was born to the late. Daisy Wright Grant Cheeks and the late Fulton Grant in Baltimore, MD on October 31, 1935. Minnie transitioned to be with her Lord and Savior on December 27, 2022.

Reared in East Baltimore, Minnie attended Baltimore City Public Schools. Although life's circumstances forced her to leave Dunbar Sr, High School in the 12th grade to help support her family and was hired at Sinai Hospital located on East monument Street. Always realizing the benefits of education in securing a better future, she returned to earn her high school diploma.

At an earlier age, Minnie accepted Christ and was baptized at First Apostolic Faith Church. She was a proud member and regularly attended Sunday School and church services until declining health.

Minnie married her childhood sweetheart, William Bryant (who preceded her in death), on July 23, 1955. From this union, they were blessed with three daughters, Shaon Angela, Cheryl Suzette and Sheree Minette. Her daughters, grandchildren and great granddaughter were her pride and joy, and she would frequently regale co-workers with stories of their accomplishments. Additionally later in the years, she unofficially "adopted" a son, Teru Hamilton and daughter, Deloris Jones Pearsall.

In 1969 she was employed with Baltimore City Public Schools as an Educational Assistant in the Office of Testing and Evaluation. Most of her career was spent in this capacity. In the 1970's, she decided to further her education and enrolled in Antioch College where she graduated with an Associate of Arts degree. In 2016, she was reassigned to the Office of Transportation until her retirement in 2017.

Minnie met many friends throughout various departments during her 48 year tenure and was affectionately known as the "Avon Lady". She received many recognitions such as the President's Award for high sales, dedicating over 35 years of service as a sales representative.

Minnie was met with hardships on her journey through life, but she did not let them deter her. Instead, she empowered herself with resources to help her face her challenges. Later in life, she often reflected on her humble beginnings and stated that she didn't know how she weathered the storm.

Through all her struggles, Minnie somehow managed to ensure her children didn't miss out on the joys of childhood. Going to the circus, symphony and Ice Capades, excursions to Amish Country, trips to Canada and Florida were some of the experiences she enjoyed with her "Little Minnies", a nickname given to her children.

In addition to selling Avon, she was a self-taught bowler, subsequently joining The Woodchucks of Woodlawn and The Armco League of Dundalk. Eventually she introduced family members to the sport. Some continue to actively participate in the sport. She volunteered at Dunbar Cultural Arts Program and the Community Action Center. This gave her personal satisfaction. Her children actively participated as well. Although she enjoyed these activities, traveling was what resonated with her and has always been part of her family tradition. She was especially fond of Disney World and organized the annual Family and Friends Train Trip.

Minnie enjoyed socializing with family during holidays and at the annual James Family Reunion held in Florence, South Carolina. It was of great important to know her family's heritage, thus she spent countless hours researching her family tree to discover more about her ancestors.

As an active stakeholder in the early days of Dunbar's "Little City Hall" Office, she relished the opportunity of campaigning and assisting State Senator Nathan C. Irby, Jr., State Senator Nathaniel J. McFadden as well as the late Mayor Clarence H. DuBurns, and the late State Delegate Hattie N. Harrison with their political endeavors.

Three siblings preceding her in death were, Columbus (Sonny) Grant, Betty M. Cheeks Booker and Edith V. Cheeks Booker and Edith V. Cheeks Golphin.

While Minnie is enjoying her new life in heaven, she is survived by her daughters and their spouses Sharon Harrison (Robert), Cheryl Wood (Keith) and Sheree Bryant Davidson (Wilhelm); her grandchildren Shanell Bryant, Ryan Harrison, Shaneia Bryant, Keira Wood and Kamren Wood; her great granddaughter, Cheyene Bryant; her bonus son and daughter Teru Hamilton (Delisa) and Delois Jones Pearsall (Carl); her sister, Naomi Cheeks Harrison; her sister-in-law, Mozell Bryant Battle; her brothers and their spouses William Cheeks, Jr., (Stephanie) and John Cheeks ( Jacqueline); her brother-in-law, Louis Golphin and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.