J.R. Bryan

J. R. “Pickle” Bryan, age 77, went to be in the arms of Jesus Thursday, December 18, 2014 at the United Hospital Center, Clarksburg, West Virginia. He was born in Philippi, February 6, 1937, the son of the late Bedford and Mae (Nestor) Bryan. On October 12, 1957, he was united in marriage to Murrell (Nitz) Bryan, who survives at their residence. In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters Pamela “Pammy Jo” Bryan Annon and husband Greg of Charleston WV and Victoria Rae “Vickie” Bryan Jones and husband Keith of Philippi. Also surviving is his two grandchildren Kira Jo and husband Michael Randolph of Philippi; and Julian Bryan Jones and partner Samantha of Philippi; and three great-grandchildren, Kemper Ryan, Ashton Michael and Keylee Jo all of Philippi. Two step grandchildren Eric Annon of Arizona and Kelly Annon of Virginia Also surviving is his brother Elton “Butch” Bryan and wife Barbara of Philippi Pickle was preceded in death by one sister Carrie K. Bryan. Pickle graduated from Philippi High School, 1956; he was a member of the Mansfield United Methodist Church. He was the owner of the oldest business in Philippi, Bryan’s Shoe Repair. He was co-owner with his brother Butch of Bryan Brothers Memorial, Mt. Vernon Cemetery and Bryan’s Car Wash. He also worked for the City of Philippi as an electrician and for Barbour Coal as a coal popper. He was a past member of the Philippi Fire Department and Philippi Lions Club. He graduated from the University of Hard Knocks in April 1995 with a Bachelors of Arts Degree. Pickle enjoyed hunting fishing, playing golf; watching the WV Mountaineer football and basketball; the UAB football and basketball and going to his great grandson’s football games. Above all else, Pickle was a dedicated hard worker. He enjoyed moving the grass and keeping it perfect; he loved planting flowers and vegetable gardens. He treasured his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, teaching each of them one of his many talents. Friends will be received at the Wright Funeral Home 220 N. Walnut St. Philippi on Saturday December 20, from 1-8 pm and on Sunday December 21, from 8 am – 2 pm the service hour with Rev. Dr. Robert A. Sisler officiating. Entombment will follow in Bryan Memorial Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to the Animal Friends of Barbour County, PO Box 452, Philippi, WV 26416 or the Mansfield Methodist Church, 135 Jenny Street, Philippi, WV.