Randall Ray Bryant was born at Kaweah Hospital, in Visalia, California, on Nov. 5, 1935, and passed away at Tri-Star Hospital, in Hendersonville, Tennessee, on Jan. 24, 2024.
Randall graduated Lindsay High School, in 1953, then attended two years of college at The College of Sequoias, in Visalia, California. Randall served two years in the United States Army. In total, Sgt. Bryant spent 46 years in law enforcement and retired from Tulare County Sheriff's Department, in 2003.
Randall loved playing golf. He played in the 1993 World Police and Fire Games, in Colorado Springs, and the 1997 World Police and Fire Games, in Calgary, Canada. Randall loved traveling the country with his wife, Alma Jane. He also enjoyed listening to jazz music. At last count, Randall had 35 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren. Randall and his wife, Alma Jane, moved to Tennessee, in 2008, and loved their remaining time together.
Randall was preceded in death by his wife, Alma Jane Bryant; his daughter, Angie Varga; and his son, Terry Bryant.
Randall is survived by his sons, Randy Bryant, Christopher Bryant, Ray Essman; son-in-law, Tony Foster; his daughters, Freida Essman, Annette Essman; his best friend and companion, Kodi; and his best friend/running mate and partner in crime, Michael "Mike" Scott.
Randall had a great support system in his neighborhood, and each and every one of them is greatly appreciated for the companionship and genuine love, care, and concern they showed and gave to him.
Randall was a true red-blooded American patriot until his last breath. RIP Pop. You will be greatly missed.
Graveside service was 3 p.m., Jan. 27, 2024, at Saylors Cemetery, with full military honors by the Veterans' Honor Guard. Randall Kirby officiated.
Hunter Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
