Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

March 7, 2024

CHARLOTTE – James Michael Bryant, 65, passed away peacefully at home on March 7, 2024.

Michael was born February 20, 1959, in Charleston, West Virginia.

Michael was the biggest fan of all UNC-Chapel Hill sports as well as the Carolina Panthers. He never missed a game if he could help it.  Michael was always smiling when UNC or the Panthers won. When he wasn’t cheering for his favorite teams, he loved sitting on the back porch and watching all the deer, especially when new calves and fawns were born. Michael was a retired baker with BI-LO. 

In 2022, Michael was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and was told he did not have long to live.  Michael fought a long and courageous fight and survived two years longer than was expected.  He was asked what his goal was, and he responded with “I want to make it to my 40^th Anniversary and renew my vows with Elizabeth.”  With God’s grace, they renewed their vows in November of 2023 surrounded by family and friends.

The family would like to give their special thanks and appreciation to the entire staff of Atrium Health who took care of Michael during his fight to live.

Michael is survived by his wife of forty years, Elizabeth, his daughter, Kristen, who put her life on hold to help in taking care of her father during his illness, his granddaughter, Kayla Gatz, who was the sunshine in his life, and his beloved dog Harley who spent many hours keeping Michael company.

He is also survived by his sisters, Karen and Debbie, and his brother-in-law Mac, who were always there for anything needed by him.  Michael and Debbie were best friends more than siblings.  He is also survived by his nephews, Christopher and Stephen, and nieces, April and Kim, and many great nieces and nephews. Michael’s family were his life and he loved them all dearly.

Michael is also survived by his best friends, Magda and Eddy Vargas, who were always there for anything he needed.

Honoring Michael’s wishes, the family will have a celebration of life at their home at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael’s honor can be made to his favorite charity, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28204 (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.