Ola Bell Brown

Ola Bell Bryant was born on January 31, 1946, in Dothan, Alabama, to the late Mr. Willie Mack and Mrs. Mayola Bryant.

She grew up in Dothan, attending the Dothan City School System before going on to earn her associate degree from Riley Business College. A woman of deep conviction, Ola Bell accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age at Bethesda Apostolic Faith Temple Church. She later became a dedicated member of Greater Beulah Baptist Church, where she shared her beautiful voice as a member of the church choir. Ola Bell was known for her strong work ethic, culminating in a successful 25-year career with GE, from which she retired with honors.

On September 5, 1992, Ola Bell married the love of her life and forever soulmate, Mr. Johnny Mack Brown. Together, they built a beautiful life defined by an enduring love that spanned 35 wonderful years.

Family was the center of Ola Bell Brown’s world. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother to her only son, Jerry, and an exceptionally proud grandmother to her grandson, "Jett," who was truly Me Maw’s baby. Her warmth extended to her bonus children and granddaughter, as well as a special daughter whom she held dear to her heart.

Ola Bell Brown peacefully entered eternal rest, reunited with her loved ones who went before her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bryant; her two brothers, Edmond Bryant and Willie Earl Bryant; and her two sisters, Willie May Bryant and Zola Mae Bryant.

She leaves behind a rich legacy of LOVE and beautiful memories. Her spirit will live on through her devoted husband, Johnny Brown; her beloved son, Jerry E. Taylor Jr.; and her cherished grandson, Jerry E. “Jett” Taylor III. She is also survived by her two bonus children, Andre Brown and Tanesha Johnson; her bonus granddaughter, Kayla Brown; and her special daughter, Cyla F. Harrell. She will be deeply missed by her sisters-in-law, Joanna Watson (Val), Mary Ann Merrill, Margaret Napper, and Paula Baxter (Henry), alongside a host of loving nephews, nieces, extended relatives, and dear friends.

A celebration of life will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026 in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Joseph Bryant and Cyla Harrell officiating. Visitation will begin at 1pm in the chapel until service time at 2pm.