Alton C Bryan

Alton C (Honey) Bryan passed away at his home on October 30, 2015 at the age of 88, surrounded by his loving family.
Alton was born June 1, 1927 to Alton and Alma Bryan of Norton, Texas. He was a graduate of Ballinger High School and worked as a tractor mechanic for Mansell Brothers for 19 years. He married Iris Nell Bales of Hatchel, Texas on January 22, 1950. Together they had three children; Sunny, Brad, and Carolyn. They were married for 50 years until her death in August of 2000. In the late 1960's, Alton and Iris purchased Tigner's Jewelry which eventually moved to the old Farmers and Merchants building and became the home of Bryan Jewelers until 2002. Alton spent his time with his many business endeavors in downtown Ballinger. He enjoyed his peach and pecan orchard, raising honey bees, farming, and remodeling houses. Alton was a deacon of the 9th Street Church of Christ for over 50 years and was instrumental in every aspect of outreach and ministry.
Alton married Ruby Nell Miller on May 4, 2001 and retired a year later from the jewelry business after serving customers for 35 years. He enjoyed his retirement through the creation of his magical Christmas production that the community looked forward to seeing every holiday season. Alton was a self-taught mechanical genius that could repair, rebuild, or create anything from the smallest watch movement to his one-of-a-kind pecan sheller.
Alton is survived by his wife Ruby Bryan; daughter Sunny Stanley and husband Mel of Benbrook, son Brad Alton Bryan and wife Terri of Lubbock, daughter Carolyn Parker and husband Pete of Ballinger; grandchildren: Conda, Alisa, Sommer, Brandon, Bryan, Megan, David, and 13 great-grandchildren; by his three step-daughters whom he loved as his own: Donna Williams and husband Carl of Ballinger, Lana Burns and husband Patrick of Stephenville, and Nikki Lowe and husband Robin of Ballinger along with their families. Alton is also survived by his lifelong friend Marlin Davis and his 9th Street Church of Christ family.
Alton was known to be a man of few words but when he did speak everyone listened. He was a man of vast knowledge with a firm belief in God and with a deep love for his family and friends. His absence will be felt throughout the community and will leave a void in the hearts of everyone he touched. Alton leaves a legacy of love, outstanding character, and integrity that will never be matched.
Visitation for family and friends will be from 5:00 to 6:00 pm on Sunday, November 1, at Lange Funeral Home. Services will be Monday, November 2, at 2:00 pm at the 9th Street Church of Christ of Ballinger with Max Pratt officiating. Pallbearers will by Alton's grandsons along with honorary pallbearer Marlin Davis. Burial will follow in the Old Runnels Cemetery.
Memorials may be sent to 9th Street Church of Christ, 1100 9th Street, Ballinger, Texas, 76821.