HR0645 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0645 LRB103 39746 MST 70237 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives wish to honor the memory of Henry Cullen "Tony" Bryant Jr., who passed away on January 31, 2024 at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy marked by diverse achievements and a life of service; and

WHEREAS, Henry Bryant was born in Franklin, North Carolina to Joyce (Cassada) and Henry C. Bryant Sr. on February 26, 1951; he grew up in the Smoky Mountains, developing a lifelong appreciation for nature and the great outdoors; and

WHEREAS, Henry Bryant was known for his educational and intellectual pursuits; he was a proud Franklin Panther and University of North Carolina Tar Heel, demonstrating a commitment to lifelong learning with degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the Defense Language Institute, Appalachian Bible College, Dallas Theological Seminary, and Northern Illinois University; and

WHEREAS, Henry Bryant served his country with distinction as an Army Non-Commissioned Officer, showcasing his dedication to duty, and his skills as a linguist and educator were evident through his work in various countries around the world; and

WHEREAS, Henry Bryant's passion for the environment, literature, history, and coin collecting spoke to his multifaceted interests; he was also recognized as a musician, poet, and missionary, touching lives through his varied talents and pursuits; and

WHEREAS, Henry Bryant will be remembered for his wise words, "Love family, Love nature, and Read widely. And just know to embrace every day, because the time passes all too quickly.", reflecting his profound understanding of the transient nature of life; and

WHEREAS, Henry Bryant is survived by his loving wife, Gloria M. Gilmore; his children, Jennifer L. Bryant, Matthew C. Bryant, Joshua A. Bryant, and John G. Dewinski; and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will carry forward his legacy of love, wisdom, and compassion; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we acknowledge the significant contributions of Henry Cullen "Tony" Bryant Jr. to his community, his country, and to all those he touched during his remarkable life, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the family of Henry Bryant Jr. has suggested honoring his memory through charitable acts, resonating with his spirit of generosity and service to others; and be it further

RESOLVED, That s suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Henry Bryant as an expression of our esteem and respect for a life well-lived and for his innumerable contributions to society.