Lena Matilda Bryant, 79, known to most as Tillie, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2018. She was born on June 29, 1938 in Sumter, South Carolina to Thomas and Laura Kidd. Tillie and her sister, Dorothy Thomasine Kidd, grew up primarily in Dade City, Florida. Tillie was a graduate of Pasco High School, class of 1957. As a young woman she worked at the Dade City Drug Store and lived at the Edwinola Apartments where she later retired. She married Thomas Claude Bryant (Tommy) on January 15th, 1960. They were married for 53 years until Tommys passing in 2013. She happily travelled the world as a military wife and mother of three children: Lee, Steven, and Jannie. They settled in Tampa, Florida. She enjoyed hosting get togethers at her home. Tillie was a genealogist who wrote several books chronicling the histories of the Bryant and McGuire families. She was a member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy and a member of several genealogical societies. She was a Christian and a member of the First Baptist Church. Tillie is survived by her sister, Thomasine Kidd, son, Thomas Lee Bryant (Mary Beth), daughter, Jannie (Bryant) Sims (Eric). She is also survived by 4 grandchildren: Bryant Wescott Sims (Amanda), Patrick David Anthony Sims (Amy), Juliarose Erica Sims, Victoria Emily Bryant. Also, three great-grandchildren, Liam Bryant Sims, Brendan Donald Sims and Sarah Lena Hope Sims. Sadly, she is preceded in death by son, Steven Ralph Bryant. Tillie was also unfortunately preceded in death by one grandson, Andrew Logan Sims (1992-2010). Tillie was very devoted to her family and friends. She will be sorely missed and always loved. Her final inurnment will be at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida, on January 22 at 1 pm to be reunited with her husband, Tommy. A celebration of life will be held on January 20 from 3-5 pm at Hodges Family Funeral Home 5th Street. Family and friends are invited to the home of Butch and Evelyn Bryant immediately following the Celebration of Life.

Memorial Service

Hodges Family Fuenral Home, 5th

Saturday, January 20, 2018 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM 14046 5th Street Dade City, Florida 33525 Directions Memorial Service

Hodges Family Fuenral Home, 5th

Saturday, January 20, 2018 4:00 PM 14046 5th Street Dade City, Florida 33525 Directions Committal Service

Florida National Cemetery

Monday, January 22, 2018 1:00 PM 6502 SW 102nd Avenue Bushnell, Florida 33513 Directions