Chattanooga Bids Farewell to Rosetta Johnson Bryant

News Summary

The Chattanooga community is mourning the loss of Rosetta Johnson Bryant, a beloved resident who passed away at 75. Known for her joyful spirit and warmth, Rosetta leaves behind a lasting legacy of love and kindness. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during a public viewing and service on January 31, 2025.

Chattanooga Mourns the Loss of a True Treasure

Chattanooga, Tennessee, is heartbroken as it bids farewell to one of its charming and community-centered residents, Rosetta Johnson Bryant, who passed away on January 5, 2025, at the age of 75. Known for her joyful spirit and warm heart, Rosetta made a lasting impact on everyone she met during her wonderful journey through life.

A Beautiful Beginning

Rosetta was born on September 11, 1949, and grew up in a loving household that served as her foundation. She was an enthusiastic majorette at Howard High School, where she graduated with the Class of 1968. After graduation, she followed her dreams and moved to the bustling city of New York with her brother, John Floyd. It was there, living with her wonderful uncle and aunt, Fred and Lillye Watts, that she began to blossom into the remarkable woman everyone knew.

A Loving Marriage

In a love story that many in Chattanooga admired, Rosetta married Harry Leon Bryant, with whom she shared over 54 beautiful years of matrimony. The couple established their home in Lakeview, New York, for an impressive 35 years. They raised a family that included their beloved son, Troy, and welcomed two stepchildren, Barry and Tonya, whom Rosetta cherished as her own.

A Career with Heart

Rosetta’s work history showcased her dedication and versatility. She illuminated the world around her while working as a bank teller at Citibank and later took on the role of a shipping clerk at American Airlines. Her coworkers and customers could easily recognize her positive energy and friendly demeanor. Additionally, Rosetta’s love for bowling shone brightly as she participated in various tournaments and league events, making plenty of friends along the way.

Home Sweet Home

In 2003, the couple made the decision to return to their roots in Chattanooga, where they were warmly welcomed back into the community. Rosetta felt at home as she attended worship services at many local churches, bringing her kindness and nurturing spirit to her new community.

Family Legacy

Sadly, Rosetta has been preceded in death by her loving husband, Harry, her mother, Juanita Kibble Johnson, her father, John Earl Johnson, an older sister, Anna Jean Battle, an older brother, and a younger sister, Wanda Johnson Shamburger. However, her spirit lives on through a caring family that includes her younger brother, Ronald Johnson, her son Troy (along with his wife, Cynthia), stepson Barry (with Carmen), and stepdaughter Tonya (married to Scott Hatchett).

Community Embrace

Rosetta, fondly known as “Aunt Rose” to many, leaves behind a legacy full of love, laughter, and countless memories. She is survived by her grandchildren—Jaidyn, Troy, and Samara—and a host of cousins, great-nieces, great-nephews, in-laws, friends, and neighbors who will forever cherish her memory.

Final Farewell

The community is invited to say their goodbyes during a public viewing on January 31 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Chattanooga. A graveside service and interment will follow at the Chattanooga National Cemetery at 12:30 p.m. These arrangements have been thoughtfully prepared by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, located at 1101 Dodds Ave., Chattanooga, TN.

As we remember Rosetta, let us honor her kindness and spirit that enriched our lives and the community around her. Her legacy will continue to shine through all those she touched.

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Additional Resources

• Chattanoogan: Rosetta Johnson Bryant
• Wikipedia: Chattanooga
• Chattanoogan: Bekita Heath
• Google Search: Chattanooga community news
• Chattanoogan: Bivins Rosetta
• Google Scholar: Rosetta Johnson Bryant
• Chattanoogan: Duckworth Gerald Ray Cleveland
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Chattanooga