It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Thelma Emmalene Wright-Bryant, affectionately known as “Emma,” on December 8, 2024, at the age of 81. She left this world peacefully, surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of strength, devotion, and an unwavering commitment to her family.
Emma was born on December 25, 1942, in Portsmouth, Virginia, to Roland Wright and Ethel Mae Barrett Wright. Raised in a close-knit family, Emma learned early on the value of hard work, responsibility, and perseverance. Growing up, she experienced both challenges and joys that helped shape her resilient and caring nature. Her parents instilled in her the importance of family and community, and Emma carried those lessons with her throughout her life.
After attending Portsmouth public schools, Emma furthered her education by earning a certificate from Norfolk State University. Her career journey began at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard as a boiler maker, where she worked diligently, later transitioning to her role at The Naval Hospital, where she would retire after many years of service.
Emma was a woman of many joys, including shopping with her sister Anne Mae at her favorite stores—Dillard’s, JCPenney, Value City, Catherine’s, and Burlington—and dining at Old Country Buffet, Golden Corral, and Chick-fil-A. She found peace and satisfaction in tending to her garden, where she cultivated both beauty and solace.
Emma was preceded in death by her parents, Roland Wright and Ethel Mae Barrett-Wright; her beloved children, Melvin D. Bryant Jr., Donovan C. Bryant, Ethel D. Bryant, and Derrick D. Bryant; and her siblings, Russell Cheeks, Jean D. Wright-Harris, Osborne Wright, Anne Mae Wright and Roland Wright Jr. (Juju).
She is survived by her children, Angela Walls (Norfolk, VA), Paulette Bryant (Chesapeake, VA), and Tory Bryant (Baltimore, MD); her siblings, James L. Wright (Portsmouth, VA) and Jenial D. Wright (Baltimore, MD); and 17 grandchildren, 53 great-grandchildren, and nine great-great-grandchildren, who were the greatest joy of her life.
Above all, Emma’s love and devotion to her grandson, Cameron, stood out. Emma raised Cameron as her own, providing him with a nurturing and steady presence throughout his life. She dedicated herself to his upbringing with unwavering love and care, ensuring that he was always supported, cherished, and guided. Her influence shaped the person he became, and she took great pride in watching him grow into the individual he is today. Emma’s relationship with Cameron was a testament to her deep, selfless love for her family and the lengths she would go to make sure her family was cared for.
Emma was a dedicated protector and caretaker for her family, showing love in her own special way. Her legacy is one of strength, resilience, and unconditional love for those she held dear. She leaves behind her cherished friend, Harold Goodman, whose presence in her life was a source of comfort and companionship.
Though Emma is no longer with us, her memory and the lessons she imparted will live on in the hearts of her family. Her spirit, her love, and her strength will continue to guide them through every step of life.
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Tory Bryant says
December 12, 2024 at 12:53 pmYou will forever be in my Heart!
Your Baby Girl
~Tory
Xzavier Bryant says
December 19, 2024 at 1:52 pmI Love Yu So Much Grandma Why Yu Had To Leave Me This Not Right At All Iono What To Do Wit Myself It Hurt Me To See Yu Like This I Tried To Come See You For A Long Time Don’t Nobody Understands How Much I loved yu I’m Broken
Clark E. Green says
December 12, 2024 at 9:29 pmSo sorry for your loss, I send my sincere prayers and condolences to you and the family. May God comfort you and strengthen you in the season.
Clark E. Green says
December 12, 2024 at 9:30 pmSo sorry for your loss Tory. I send my sincere prayers and condolences to you and the family. May God comfort you and strengthen you in the season.
Clark E. Green says
December 12, 2024 at 9:31 pmSo sorry for your loss Tory. The Bible says to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. I send my sincere prayers and condolences to you and the family. May God comfort you and strengthen you in the season.
Gabriella Gilchrist says
December 17, 2024 at 2:16 amTo Briana and Paulette. It will be hard for a while,but God will definitely give you peace to endure the loss of your mother and grandmother! She is resting now in the arms of the Lord! Weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning! Love you all and know that I am here for you whatever you need me to do!❤️🙏🏽
Herb Robinson says
December 18, 2024 at 4:31 pmCondolences to the Family of Your Loss.
AND WE KNOW THAT GOD WORKS
ALL THINGS TOGETHER FOR THE GOOD OF THOSE WHO LOVE HIM, WHO ARE CALLED ACCORDING TO
HIS PURPOSE.
-ROMANS 8:28
Pennie Bond says
December 19, 2024 at 6:41 pmTo my family, l am soo sorry to hear of the passing of our dear loved one Emmalene, praying that God gives you strength to get through this difficult time. Sorry l can’t make it to the Service, but know l’m with you in my heart. Love you all and take care.
Teresa Allen says
December 19, 2024 at 9:35 pmSending my condolences and prayers to the family
Teresa Allen
Teresa Allen says
December 19, 2024 at 9:36 pmSending my condolences and prayers to the family
Pennie Bond says
December 19, 2024 at 6:51 pmTo my family, l am so sorry to hear of the passing of dear Emmalene, praying that God will give you strength during this difficult time. Sorry l can’t be there but know l love you all, you are always in my heart.