Arlis William Bryant was born on July 31, 1933, in Tuskahoma, Oklahoma. He departed this life on March 21, 2026, at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy built on hard work, service, and unwavering devotion to his family and community.

On March 19, 1955, Arlis married the love of his life, Illa Mae Johnson. Together they shared 56 years of marriage before her passing on December 24, 2011. Their life together was rich with love, partnership, and the joy of raising their seven children: Bruce, Kevin, Connie, Mary, Tammy, Randy, and Lory.

Arlis spent many years working in the oilfield, a career that reflected his strong work ethic and determination. He worked at AirMOD, later owned Bryant's Oilfield and Ditching, and was a partner in JCN Petroleum. Even after retirement, Arlis never truly slowed down—he found satisfaction in staying busy, especially when it came to mowing and tending to the land he loved.

He enjoyed fishing, fighting fires, and most of all, spending time with his family. Arlis was a co‑founder of the Slick Volunteer Fire Department, where he served faithfully for many years as fire chief. His commitment to protecting and serving his community became one of the defining marks of his life.

Arlis is survived by his children: Kevin Bryant and wife Debbie, Connie O'Neal and husband Jeff, Mary Reed, Tammy Starnes, Randy Keeton, and Lory Reamy; his siblings Aileen Guthrie, Eulys "John" Reed, Judy Fixico and Helen Harvey; twelve grandchildren; thirty great‑grandchildren; and eleven great‑great‑grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Illa Mae; his son, Bruce Bryant; brothers Harry Reed and Kenneth Reed; sisters Eureka Allen and Carolyn Sue Reed; great‑grandson Logan Graves; sons‑in‑law Royce Reamy and Wayne Starnes; and daughter‑in‑law Mary Ann Keeton.

Arlis lived a life marked by service, strength, and steadfast love. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue through the generations of family who carry his spirit forward.

Funeral services are scheduled for 11:00AM, Thursday, March 26, 2026 at Faith Baptist Church in Slick, Oklahoma.  Interment will follow at Old 44/Oak Hill Cemetery North of Bristow.