Sherman Lee Bryant

Sherman Lee Bryant was born on January 7, 1939 in Nodaway, IA to Ralph and Audrey (Northup) Bryant. Sherman’s childhood years were often spent working at his parents grocery stores in Villisca, Stanton, and Iowa Falls. His teenage years were marked by academic achievement and a deep passion for basketball, a sport that embodied his enduring spirit and dedication. While in high school, he demonstrated his commitment to community service by enlisting in the Army National Guard for two years. Sherman graduated from Iowa Falls High School in 1957. Shortly after, he began an impressive and noble career with his enlistment in the United States Air Force in July of 1957.


On March 13, 1958, he united in marriage to Carolyn Blair at the Nazarene Church in Iowa Falls, IA. The couple was blessed with three children. Sherman was baptized along with his family in the Mediterranean Sea. During his active duty years, Sherman served in various capacities within transportation services, spanning locations from Bedford, England, Minot, ND, Marquette, MI, and Sergeant Bluff, IA. His military service extended to a significant tour in Tosonotti, Vietnam, where he was tasked with mortuary transportation. The family relocated to Waterloo, Iowa where he served as an Air Force recruiter for a few years. He transitioned back to transportation services for his final active duty assignment in Athens, Greece. After a faithful and admirable 20 years, Sherman was honorably discharged from the USAF in July of 1977. His final career chapter unfolded in Denison, Iowa, where he worked as a financial advisor with IDS, followed by Creative Asset, until his retirement in 2012.


Beyond his professional pursuits, Sherman found joy in playing cards with family and friends, particularly Canasta, Hearts, and Pinochle. He was a devoted Vikings Football and Iowa Hawkeyes fan. Sherman was a dedicated Denison Monarchs supporter and enjoyed attending all of their sporting events. He was a long-standing member of the Lutheran Church. Sherman cherished his mornings spending time with the boys in the Coffee Club.


Sherman was actively involved in his community as a member of the Rotary Club, where he served as president, and participated in the Monday night men’s club. He was instrumental in starting Yellow Smoke Park, and played a crucial role in facilitating the implementation of computers in the Norelius Library. For 46 years, Sherman served as a committed sponsor in the AA program, where he took pride in being able to help countless people. Sherman is remembered for his integrity, dedication to service, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy will undoubtedly carry on through the many lives he touched. While surrounded by his family, the Lord called Sherman home, on September 15, 2024.


He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Kenneth Bryant; sister, Elaine Gunderson; sisters-in-law, Georgena Bryant and Kathleen Firman; brother-in-law, Gary Blair; son-in-law, Raymond Nepper; and daughter-in-law, Julia Bryant.


Sherman leaves behind a loving family that includes his wife, Carolyn Bryant, and their children: Bryan Bryant of Denison, IA, Ronda Nepper of Ida Grove, IA, and Robin Freese (Dandy Hallady) of Elko, NV; brother-in-law, James Gunderson; eight grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild.

Memorial Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at Zion Lutheran Church in Denison. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:00 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. also at the church. Military honors will take place at the church, with burial following at a later date.