BEAVER DAM – Connie “Wayne” Bryant, 77, of Beaver Dam, passed away on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 5:20PM at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital in Owensboro. Wayne was born in Muhlenberg County on Sunday, September 21, 1947, to the late Connie and Marie Drake Bryant.  He, along with his siblings – Mary Eaves Williams, Billy Bryant (deceased) and Jimmy Bryant -were raised to have a strong work ethic and a humble character.  Wayne was steadfast in his beliefs. He was a man of strong integrity and faith. He stood for what he believed in, even when he stood alone.

Wayne grew up in Powderly and was a proud member of the Muhlenberg Central Spartan class of 1965.  He enjoyed his time as a member of the FFA and could still quote the pledge. He was a faithful member of Calvary Baptist church for 48 years. During that time, he served in many positions including Discipleship Training Director, assistant teacher, and van driver. He also played on Calvary’s Softball team years ago and had fond memories of doing so. He served his church and his Lord as Deacon for 33 years; a position he held with honor and conviction. Wayne enjoyed interacting with people and was a natural born salesman. He began his career at Central City Produce in 1970.  While making deliveries to the Dairy Maid, he met the love his life and best friend, Judy Bowen Bryant, all while ordering a cup of cream. They married on June 25, 1971.  In 1975, they moved to the community of Echols where they made their home and raised their family.

In 1976, he accepted a position at Harless Wholesale where he worked until its closure. Later, he was employed by Miller Hartmann, Fleming, and Core Mark corporations making many friends along the way.  He took the term “whistle while you work” to heart. Wayne could often be heard whistling his favorite hymns long before he was seen. Wayne always dreamed of being a small-town businessman. He and Judy owned and operated the Thrifty Mart in Echols from 1987-1993. After 44 years of being a faithful provider, his family encouraged his retirement in 2014 at the age of 65.

After retirement, he enjoyed spoiling his grandkids, watching old Westerns, birdwatching while sitting on the back porch with Judy and drives through the country. He knew every backroad and country store in Western Kentucky and beyond.

Although perceived as serious, he could be quite the opposite. His quick wit and charm made him a likable guy. Whether it was funny joke, a scary mask, bringing a kid home in a box, making silly faces, putting ice down your pants, popping his dentures out or hanging you upside down by your toes, he loved to pick on every youngster who came around. Just ask his nephews, nieces, and grandchildren. His humor and kindness won over the hearts of all that met him. Over the years, he was a hobby farmer raising pigs, cows, and chickens and planting small gardens.  He also enjoyed watching dirt track racing especially car #49.

Together, he and Judy lovingly raised four children Jennifer (Jerry) Lear, Melissa (Rickie) Wilson, Julie (Tommy) Horning, and Jonathan (Cassie) Bryant.

Wayne was the proud Papaw to six grandchildren – Lainey Marie Horning, Levi Bryant Lear, Gabriel Thomas Horning, Kensington Mae Bryant, Jackson Wayne Bryant and Baby Lear

He also loved his bonus grandchildren- Amber Webster, Jeri Beth Cobb, Sara Latham, Keylee Wilson, Gabby Wilson – and his nine bonus great grandchildren.

When he departed this world for Heaven, we are sure he was welcomed with big hugs from his granddaughter Lainey Marie Horning, Baby Lear, many friends, family and of course, his Savior, Jesus Christ.

Funeral services will be Thursday, March 20, 2025 at 1PM with Bro. Jerry Eades officiating, assisted by Bro. Curtis McGehee. Burial will be at Pond Run Cemetery in Echols. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5-8PM at the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at www.tuckerfuneralhomes.com.

The family wishes to express gratitude and thanks to Dr. Jacob Hodgkins and Dr. Dhiren M. Haria and the nurses and staff at the Mitchell Memorial Cancer Center and the Fresenius Medical Center for their care and compassion during Wayne’s 4 1/2-year battle with Multiple Myeloma cancer and subsequent Kidney Failure. He fought hard and rarely complained. A true example of strength to the end. He had security in his everlasting home and that made all the difference.

More than anything he wanted others to be prepared for that everlasting home as well. He wasn’t boastful in his approach, but strong and silent. Often, he would leave Christian tracts at restaurants, on benches or whenever he may visit. He would urge you to seek and follow Jesus.