Jeanie Monica Bryant

Jeanie Monica Bryant of Astoria passed away peacefully at home on November 8th. She was born in East Los Angeles on April 13th, 1928, to Chance and Nettie Johnson. She was the last of 9 children in the Johnson family, and, as she used to say, they saved the best for last.

She graduated from Garfield High School and worked for the county of Los Angeles until she married Donald Wood Bryant in 1954. Her marriage to Don was a happy one, and she remained devoted to him until he died in 1999.

Although she was from the city, she was a country girl at heart. Country music was always a big part of her life. She saved a special love for singer Hank Thompson, and remained a lifelong fan.

Jeanie’s husband Don was a career Navy man, and retired as a lieutenant commander. She was immensely proud of him and his advancement into the officer ranks, which he did in spite of entering the Navy as an ordinary seaman. Such a career path is unusual, and she helped make it possible by supporting him every step of the way.

Jeanie was a homemaker and a prolific volunteer. She logged thousands of hours at the VA hospital in Livermore, CA. After she moved to Astoria, she was active in the Retired Officer’s Association and spent many hours volunteering at the Liberty Theater before her declining health caused her to step aside.

She was always very giving of her time and talent. She kept a bowlful of candy for the mail carriers and delivery people who visited her house, and always baked wonderful treats that she delivered to many during the holidays. She taught herself various crafts and produced beautiful baskets, wreaths and stained glass pieces which became gifts to friends and family.

She was known for her goofy sense of humor. She liked funny teeth and hats, jokey knick-knacks and corn-pone comedy. Whenever you would ask Jeanie how she was doing, she’d always say, “I’m still kicking – but not as high.”

Jeanie has gone to join her parents and her siblings; Mid, Lawrence, Toby, Harry, Gertrude, Carl, Emma and Harold Johnson and their dog, Jerry, at 425 S. Ditman Avenue, Los Angeles. Figs grow on two trees in the back yard and they are delicious.

Jeanie will be missed by those who knew and loved her. Survivors include her daughter Colleen Violette, son-in-law Kevin Violette and grandson Will Violette. Service will be private.

Memorial contributions may be made in her name to Lower Columbia Hospice or to the Liberty Theater Restoration LLC of Astoria.