CHICKAMAUGA - James D. Bryan, 73, found comfort in the arms of our Lord Jesus Christ on the 7th of February of 2022. A dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, James served and protected America’s freedom and safety as a US Marine during the Vietnam War. Wounded during action, he was awarded the distinguished Bronze Star and Purple Heart Medals.

As a dedicated veteran, he applied his experience championing not only veterans, but also countless citizens to procure employment while working at the Georgia Department of Labor, of which tenure persisted for 35 years. He was awarded Veteran of the Year because of his dedication, contribution, and services as a proud veteran and valuable community member.

James was also a self-proclaimed Christian who served the Lord as a deacon at Peavine Baptist Church for decades. An avid outdoorsman and gardening enthusiast, James encouraged his sons’ and associated youths in the customs prescribed by the Boy Scouts of America. A Boy Scout himself, James mentored his sons through the ranks to ultimately achieve the prestigious and most high ranking state of “Eagle Scout”. In summary, James’ most cherished and proudest achievements were not of the earthly variety, but the boundless and unconditional love he always “has” for his family.

James is preceded in death by his father David J. Bryan, mother Mary Frances Jones-Bryan, brother Marvin (Buck) Bryan, and sister Margie (Sissy) Lively.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years Bonita Basinger Bryan, sons Dr. James D. Bryan II (Annie) and Jason Adam Bryan (Ashley), and three granddaughters: Isabella, Alora, and Annalee Bryan, brother Bob Bryan (Debbie) as well as several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 10th, 2022 at 1pm in the South Crest Chapel with Rev. Roger Keys officiating. Interment will follow in the Lakewood Memory Gardens South with military honors.

Condolences may be shared at lane-southcrestchapel.com

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 9th, 2022 from 4-7pm and Thursday, from 12pm until the funeral hour in the South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home & Crematory, Rossville, GA