Dolores Vernita “Lady Dee” Bryant was a woman of faith, service, and love whose life touched family, friends, church members, and countless others in her community. Born Dolores Vernita Colwell on January 12, 1944, in Washington, D.C., she was the eldest child of Lenora McLean Colwell Wiggins and William Dennis Colwell. At age nine, she accepted Christ at St. Phillips Baptist Church, beginning a lifelong devotion to the Lord.
Dolores attended schools in Washington, D.C. and continued her education at D.C. Teachers College and Prince George’s Community College. She worked for several organizations before building a career with Bell Atlantic Telephone Company (now Verizon), where she remained until retiring in 1992.
On May 17, 1969, she married Socrates Bryant, Jr., and together they raised two children, Tanya and Socrates III. A devoted mother and gracious hostess, she created a home filled with love, family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and treasured memories.
Her commitment to service extended beyond her family. She volunteered as a Red Cross Candy Striper, participated in the Pioneers for Telephone Company, and served as a Camp Fire Leader and board member, positively influencing many young women.
Above all, Dolores loved the Lord. She faithfully served in numerous ministries, including teaching, hospitality, missions, music, wedding coordination, and floral design. Her beautiful floral creations enhanced countless weddings and church events.
Dolores enjoyed line dancing, movies, plays, singing hymns, and spending time with family and friends.
On July 16, 2026, at the age of 82, she was called home to enter the joy of the Lord.
Dolores’ legacy continues through her beloved family. Dolores is survived by her daughter, Tanya Bryant Wells (Kamar); son, Socrates Bryant, III; six grandchildren, Chalais Brown, Chanel Page (Christopher), Kayla Bryant, Jamar Dudley, William A. Clarke Jr., and Harmony Addison. She is also survived by the fourth generation of her family through her three cherished great-grandchildren, Jayden Brown, McKinsey Cox, and Everett Cox IV.
