Robert H. Bryant, Jr., age 74, of St. Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025, surrounded by love.
Bob was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, the second of seven children born to Robert H. Bryant Sr. and Marcella “Sally” (Ahrens) Bryant, who preceded him in death. He spent his life deeply rooted in faith, family, and service to others.
Bob dedicated most of his professional career to serving as a Special Agent (Police Officer) with the Union Pacific Railroad, from which he retired after many years of faithful and honorable service. Known for his strong work ethic, fairness, and integrity, Bob lived his life with humility, honesty, and quiet strength.
A generous and devoted man of faith, Bob was a lifelong supporter of the Church and a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus. He held a deep devotion to the Blessed Mother and believed firmly in the power of prayer. One of his cherished traditions was taking each of his children to the chapel to pray on their way home from the hospital—a reflection of the faith that guided his life.
In 1973, Bob married the love of his life, Rita (Mikesch) Bryant, whom he adored completely. Their marriage was a true partnership, marked by devotion, laughter, and unwavering support. Bob took great pride and joy in caring for Rita and walking beside her through every season of life.
Bob is survived by his beloved wife Rita. He is preceded in death by their beloved son Robert (Melissa) Bryant III and survived by five children Jennifer (Philip) Colombo, Mark (Mary) Bryant, Kelly (Micah) Conner, Katherine (William) Slinkard, and Samantha (Ian) Whitehill, as well as 22 treasured grandchildren, who ran to him with open arms and were a constant source of joy.
Bob enjoyed reading, traveling, and anything that allowed him to spend time with Rita and his family. He lived for others and made it his life’s mission to one day stand before God and show how he used the gifts entrusted to him—most especially his children. Teaching, advising, and guiding them to be the best people they could be was his greatest calling.
Funny, humble, and easygoing, Bob was deeply loved. His smile and laugh were deeply infectious. His wife cherished him, his children admired and loved him, and his grandchildren adored him. His strength and resilience were evident in all he did, including his courageous seven-year battle with Lewy Body dementia. He now rests in peace.
Bob firmly believed that this world was not our final home and that our true reward awaits us in Heaven.
Services are as follows:
Visitation:
Kutis – Affton
10151 Gravois Rd
St. Louis, MO 63123
12/29/25 4-8 PM
Funeral Mass:
Seven Holy Founders
6737 S Rock Hill Rd
Affton, MO 63123
12/30/25 10 AM
Luncheon to follow Mass:
Helen Ftizgerald’s
3650 S Lindbergh Blvd
St. Louis, MO 63127
All are welcome
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bob’s name to The BackStoppers.
Love you Bob, best friend!
Will miss you.
Sending prayers and peace for the loving Bryant family.