Gail Sue Bryant was called to her Heavenly home April 24, 2025, in Purcell, Oklahoma at the age of 87 years 1 month 10 days. Funeral Services were Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at the Wadley’s Funeral Chapel. Interment followed at Green Hill Cemetery in Lindsay, Oklahoma, entrusted to the care of Wadley’s Funeral Service.
Gail was born March 14, 1938, in Carnegie, Oklahoma, to Antonio “Tony” and Nola Ethel (Nunn) Perkins and gracefully navigated the rich tapestry of life with resilience and love.
As one of five children, she was raised amidst humble beginnings in Bradley, where her childhood instilled in her an unwavering work ethic. Born in a time when things were hard and money was almost non-existent, she learned in those formative years that hard work was the only way to survive. Hay fields, cotton patches, broom-corn fields, and peanut farms were everyday ways of life.
In 1957, Gail graduated from high school, a testament to her perseverance in a time when resources were scarce. Her early adulthood led her to various positions, working diligently at Morrow’s Quick Stop in Lindsay, Kennedy Drug in Purcell, and managing a shoe store in Georgia.
On May 11, 1962, Gail’s life took a beautiful turn when she married Essary Vaughn Bryant in Bradley. Together, they welcomed their beloved daughter, Gina Lynn Bryant, on October 28, 1963—a cherished moment in a life filled with warmth and family. Gail had a passion for creating, often found crafting intricate ceramic figurines and arranging floral tributes for her family’s headstones. This creative spirit, combined with her fondness for family gatherings, highlighted the love that she cultivated throughout her life.
After a long career in trucking, Gail and Vaughn returned to their roots, making Purcell, Oklahoma, their home in 1998. Gail’s legacy is one of dedication, artistry, and an unwavering devotion to her family, whose lives she enriched through her kindness and strength.
Gail is preceded in death by her parents, Tony and Nola Perkins; daughter, Gina Lynn Martin; brothers, Jessie Perkins, Gerald Perkins and Tony “Odell” Perkins; and sister, Dora (Perkins) Shea.
Survivors include her husband of 62 years, Vaughn Bryant; grandson, Bryant Martin and wife, Becky; great grandchildren, Kambree and Kylee; and numerous other relatives and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that memorial contributions be made in Gail’s name to The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, 303 East Wacker Drive, Suite 2300, Chicago, IL 60601-5224. Their phone number is (800) 486-8844. Their website is https://help.ifcj.org, choose Donate Now.