Verlin Leo and DarryLee Holland Bryson

Verlin Leo Bryson and Darry Lee Bryson of Cullowhee are now rejoicing in their heavenly home. Born June 12, 1935, Daddy left us on July 24, 2026, two days before his wedding anniversary. He only had a week to wait before he was reunited with his bride of 71 years, DarryLee Holland. Born April 21, or April 22, 1936 (depending on whether you believe the family Bible or the official record), Momma went to be with Daddy, July 31, 2026.

Married on July 26, 1955, Momma and Daddy lived most of their life in the Tilley Creek community of Jackson County. They laid a Bible as a cornerstone of the foundation of the house they built and together they raised and nurtured three boys, David, Stan, and Brett and one daughter, Joy. Nine children and nine great-grandchildren graced their home and they guided them all by setting an example of what a Christian marriage and family should be.

Daddy was an ordained Baptist minister and pastored various churches in the area and had a Sunday morning radio spot for many years. Momma had the difficult task of being a minister's wife. She accomplished this with style and a gracious love for all those that came in contact with her family through Daddy's ministry.

After retiring from Dayco Corporation, Daddy owned and operated Tilley Creek Small Engine Repair and serviced kerosene heaters for many people in the area. Momma worked at various jobs when the family needed a new couch or money to help pay for Daddy's next dozer work.

When he wasn't working, Daddy loved to hunt and fish with a special love of deer hunting. In his later years, he got special enjoyment of fishing area lakes with his good friend Terry Watson and his son-in-law, Frank Bowers.

Momma loved to see her flowers bloom and watch her family grow. She was always the one to slip a kid money for the movie or a school dance. She had a special talent for making pound cakes and never let a child's birthday or accomplishment go unnoticed.

Verlin and DarryLee asked to be cremated and their ashes will be interred in a family plot on the land they loved on Tilley Creek. No services are planned but a remembrance service by family and friends will be held at a later date.

Appalachian Funeral Services was honored to care for the Bryson family.