Eric Dean Bryant, Sr. 63 of Goode, VA, departed this life peacefully to be with the Lord on Monday, April 27, 2026. He was born on March 6, 1963 to the late Catherine Jean Bryant and the late Robert "Bob" Graham. He was also preceded in death by his grandparents, Joseph Bryant, Sr. and Lillie Bryant; brother, Tyree Bryant, Sr.; uncles and aunts: Joseph Bryant, Jr. (Emma), Curtis Bryant, Sr. (Georgia), James O. Bryant, Sr., Frank Lewis, Sr. and Bloise Banks; niece, Sade Arrington.

Eric was baptized at a young age and became a lifelong member of Mt. Zion United Methodist Church Goode, VA. He loved the Lord and he enjoyed singing his favorite gospel song "Rough Side of The Mountain."

He was educated in the Bedford County School system and was a graduate of Jefferson Forest High School in 1981. Eric was affectionately known by his loved ones as "Eric Dean", "John Henry", "Dean", "Shaq" and "Eazy E."

Eric loved sports. He played football in high school and participated in recreational basketball. He was a die-hard fan of the Miami Dolphins. A gentle giant, Eric lit up every room he walked in with his big, infectious, contagious smile and his "bling blinging" jewelry. He never met a stranger and was loved by many.

For sixteen years, Eric was a dedicated employee at M.O.I. in Roanoke, VA. He took great pride in his work and excelled in his role. He was a valued member of the company and was deeply appreciated by his employer, coworkers, and clients.

Eric was a loving Father, Brother, Nephew, Uncle, Cousin and a great friend. His presence will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew and loved him.

His memory will be cherished by those who loved him; his son, Eric Dean Bryant, Jr.; brothers, Aundray Bryant, Carey Bryant (Vernise), Gregory Bryant, Sr. (Gladys), Robert Bryant and Michael Bryant; sisters, Shelia B. Blake, Pamela Bryant, Bobbie Bryant and Anne Bryant-Alexander; stepson, Akeem Akers; step granddaughter, Karmani Akers; twenty nieces, sixteen nephews, a host of great nieces and great nephews; uncle, Percell Bryant, Sr. (Mary); aunts, Carolyn Dudley, Linda "Lee Lee" Lewis and Hilda Bryant.