Edward Jermaine Bryant

Edward Jermaine Bryant blessed the earth with his presence on February 25, 1974, to the union of Eddie Wayne and Glenda Joyce (Hardaway) Bryant of Meridian, Mississippi.

Jermaine loved the outdoors; fishing, hunting, and wondering about playing with any moving creature he found. He enjoyed playing with his friends and even though he enjoyed teasing his sister as well, he was always the first to protect his family and friends. At a young age, Jermaine was very creative and he was always building things. He was especially gifted in math and used his gift to help his sister whenever she needed him.

In August of 1993 Jermaine began his studies at Jackson State University (JSU). It was here, on the first day of class, where he met his future wife, Delora Putnam. During his matriculation at JSU, Jermaine was socially engaged in various groups such as: Campus Crusade for Christ, Financial Management Association, Student Government Association, and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Jermaine’s charismatic spirit and servant heart led him to be loved by as many as he befriended. Edward Jermaine received his Bachelors of Business Administration from Jackson State University in 1997.

Shortly after graduation, Jermaine moved to Nashville, TN, to begin his professional career as a personal banker for Region Bank. He was blessed to have his sister, Bridget, join him in this move. Jermaine was sure to stay connected to Delora, who still resided in Huntsville, AL, with countless calls and frequent visits during this time.

Jermaine moved to Wisconsin in 2000 when his firstborn daughter, Azariah, was born. At this time, Jermaine advanced his career from branch manager to commercial loan officer. It was never difficult for him to advance his career due to his constant quest for self-improvement. He always wanted to be great so he could greatly impact others. During this time, Jermaine married his wife, on April 20, 2003, witnessed by beloved church members on Easter Sunday. He fathered two more loving daughters; Ashai (2004) and Ayanna (2007). As if marriage and fatherhood did not keep him busy enough, Jermaine studied diligently to receive his Masters in Business Association from the University of Phoenix as well as his Associates in Commercial Real Estate from Marquette University.

Edward Jermaine worked his way through the banking industry, always helping those around him to achieve their best potential. He held the titles: Senior Commercial Lender, VP of Commercial Lender, Chief Lending Officer, Director of Lending, Portfolio Manager, Community Lender and Relationship Manager, and President of Bryant Capital. Edward walked those halls seeking to serve any and everyone, especially those who looked like him. His family would like to share special thanks to Edward Jermaine’s work family from U.S. Bank, Associated Bank, Legacy Bank, W.H.E.D.A., North Milwaukee State Bank, Northwest Side Community Development Corporation, Byline Bank, BBIF Orlando, FL, and Town Bank.

Edward Jermaine Bryant was a man of servitude who tirelessly volunteered within his community at:
Outpost Foods, Board Member
Riverworks Development Corporation Board of Directors, Real Estate Chair
City of Milwaukee Revolving Loan Fund
Bridge Builders, Board Member
African American Chamber of Commerce, Revolving Loan Committee,
Fondy Food Market Board of Directors, President, Past Board Member
Market Place Board Member State of Wisconsin, Past Board Member
S.E.T. Ministry, Inc. Board of Directors, Past Board Member
Highland Montessori School Board of Directors, Past Board Member
Deacon of Finance at Northtown Church of Christ
Guest lecturer at Marquette University, and Small business workshop lecturer.

Jermaine loved telling jokes and he had a true passion for challenging others’ perception – especially in regards to race relations. When he managed some free time, he worked on improving his golf game, he learned Chicago stepping, and he enjoyed watching Netflix and taking naps. Jermaine was faithful to God and the church he served.

Edward Jermaine Bryant departed this life February 22, 2021, joining those in heaven who preceded his death: His mother, Glenda Bryant, father, Eddie Bryant, grandfather, Early Bryant, grandmother, Frankie Bryant, grandfather, Ollie Hardaway, Sr.; grandma, Mary Louis Hardaway and his niece, Isis Bryant.

Leaving to cherish his memory: Loving wife, Delora Bryant, daughters, Azariah, Ashai, and Ayanna Bryant, sister, Bridget Bryant, nephew, Zyon along with many uncles, aunts, and cousins.

Edward Jermaine Bryant has blessed this world with his kindness and wisdom and his legacy will live on with every good deed he has done. He will be greatly missed but comfort will be found in each memory of him.