Cornelia A. Bryant
Cornelia A. Bryant
Cornelia Anne Bryant, 82, known for her distinguished career and travels, passed away on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at her residence in Staunton. She was born on December 27, 1941, in Tampa, FL.She graduated with a bachelor's degree from Agnes Scott College in Decatur, GA, where she majored in history and political science. Additionally, Cornelia completed specialized training in economics and foreign languages at the Foreign Service Institute in Washington, D.C.Cornelia's professional journey was marked by her service and dedication. She retired in 1991 after years as a foreign service officer with the US Department of State. Her work assignments took her to Ottawa and then Vancouver in Canada; Paris, France; Johannesburg, South Africa; Libreville, Gabon; Brussels, Belgium; and Washington, D.C.Outside of her professional pursuits, Cornelia indulged in her favorite hobby of needlework. She was a member of the American Needlepoint Guild and the Embroiderers Guild of America. She enriched her skills through the Callaway School of the Needlearts at Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, GA, at many annual winter workshops. Her love of traveling led her to experience new places throughout Europe, Africa, and Asia where she enjoyed learning of the culture and atmospheres of these unique destinations.Cornelia actively participated in the Literacy Club of Fredericksburg, sponsored the Young Artists Competition for many years, served as a docent at the historic St. James House in Fredericksburg, and lent her support to various historic preservation initiatives in that city. She was a devoted member of St. George's Episcopal Church in Fredericksburg.Cornelia is survived by her sisters, Susan Bryant Parrott, Mary Bryant Ewing, and Kathryn Viola Bryant.In addition to her father, she is preceded in death by her loving mother, Frances Sarah Witham Bryant and a sister, Sally Jo Bryant Zdanwic.The family appreciates the kindness and compassion given her by her caregivers at Virginia Care Partners in Fredericksburg and from Visiting Angels in Staunton. Additionally, Jessie Parrott, Sara Hart, Emily Vapoe, and Rebecca Brannock have been a special source of comfort and love throughout this journey.Services will be announced at a later date.
