Jerald (Jerry, JB) Bryant was born on January 6, 1958, in Fortuna to Meredith and Irene Bryant and passed peacefully, although unexpectedly, from this life on April 14, 2021 in St. Helena, due to complications from heart surgery; with loved ones by his side. The middle of three children, Jerry grew up in Ferndale, attending Ferndale Elementary and Ferndale High School, where he made life-long friends. He and Tim Grinsell, born nine days apart, shared a lifelong special friendship. Jerry was always proud of his deep, generational Ferndale roots. In high school, Jerry played football and baseball. He continued to play softball in his younger adult years. He went on to work for many years as a tree faller and was known by many to be the best of the best at falling trees.

Jerry married Cathey Wallen in 1982 and his one and only daughter, Morgan, was born in 1985. Jerry and Cathey later divorced, but remained friends throughout his life. Morgan has always been the “apple of his eye,” the most loved and admired by Jerry. His whole face would light up when he talked to or about Morgan, his love for and pride in her never ending. Jerry was a talented artist, spending time in his younger years drawing great pieces and spending the last several years working with wood; carving some of the most beautiful cutting boards, vases, utentsils and mirror frames. Receiving these creations as gifts was the highlight of many a Christmas and birthday of many family members and friends. Jerry loved animals, especially dogs. He owned many special dogs through the years. Most recently he had his special pup, Lula, who was a fatihful friend for several years; having crossed the rainbow bridge not too long before her beloved “dog dad.” Jerry made fast friends with people throughout his life. Jerry was always willing to lend a hand and never really meeting a stranger. Jerry was simply a genuinely honest, kind man, full of talent and integrity. Many lives are better because of the memories held of Jerry in them.

Jerry is survived by: daughter, Morgan Bryant; mother, Irene Bryant; sister, Gina (Jay) Parrish; niece, Sarah (John) Ireland and their children, Connor, Aidan and Korbin; his ex-wife, Cathey Wallen; his uncle and aunt, Milt and Janet Mossi of Napa and numerous cousins; special friend, Holly Sommers and many friends who were really family. Jerry was preceded in death by: father, Meredith; brother, Robert and his paternal and maternal grandparents.

The family will host a private memorial service at a later date.

The family would like to thank the staff at Jerold Phelps Community Hospital and the staff at Adventist Health St. Helena for the care and compassion shown to Jerry and his family; and all those who have reached out and visited over the last few weeks. The love and kindness is much appreciated by all.

In lieu of flowers or donations share your talents with others, have respect for others and do something kind for another.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Jerald Bryant’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.