She was truly an angel on earth, lovingly leased to us by God and returned to Him far too

soon. Her life was a quiet yet powerful testament to grace, humility, and unwavering love.

She walked this world with gentle strength, leaving behind a legacy that speaks not in grand

gestures, but in the countless lives she touched through kindness, compassion, and care.

EARLY LIFE & EDUCATION

Born on September 25, 1951, in Marshall, Texas, to Willie Mae and Marion Henderson,

Curlia was the eldest of four daughters. From an early age, she distinguished herself through

both character and intellect. A bright and determined young woman, she graduated

as valedictorian of the Pemberton High School Class of 1969. She later attended Bishop

College in Dallas, Texas, where she graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor of Science

degree in Accounting.

Though her education and talents could have taken her far beyond the South, Curlia chose

to remain close to those she loved, building a beautiful life in Dallas, Texas, surrounded by

the love of her extended family on both the Henderson and Jackson sides.

LOVE, FAMILY & LEGACY

It was in Dallas that she met Wilbert D. Bryant while working at St. Regis Paper Company.

The two were united in holy matrimony on April 15, 1976, and from this union one

cherished daughter was born, Pamela Bryant.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory her loving daughter, Pamela Bryant; her beloved

grandchildren, Paige Sims and Dennis Sims II; and through her marriage, her devoted

stepdaughters, Toni Crowder, Sharon Covington, and Vicki Head, along with their children,

whom she loved and cared for dearly.

Curlia was also a devoted big sister to Eulalia Roberson, Cordelia McMillian, and Marian

Henderson. She was the first of the siblings to be called home, joining her beloved parents

in eternal rest.

Affectionately known as “Curlie,” she was loved and respected by a host of cousins, aunts,

uncles, nieces, nephews, and dear friends whose lives were forever blessed by her presence.

CAREER & SERVICE

Curlia built a respected career in accounting, working for St. Regis Paper Company and

later Pro-Line Hair Products. In time, she found her true calling as a social worker with the

State of Texas Department of Health and Human Services. In that role, she lived out her

heart for service, uplifting and supporting others with compassion, patience, and dignity.

HER SPIRIT

Those who knew Curlia best remember her as sweet, sometimes sassy, positive, committed,

funny, and confident. She possessed a simple, natural beauty and an authentic spirit that

made everyone feel welcome, seen, and valued. She found joy in life’s simple blessings

and carried herself with grace and quiet strength. Her life was rooted in love, service, and

selflessness. She gave freely of herself, often placing the needs of others before her own, and

offering comfort, wisdom, and care wherever it was needed.

CLOSING

Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we are comforted in knowing that Curlia’s life was a

beautiful reflection of love in its purest form. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured,

the lives she touched, and the memories she leaves behind.

She will forever be remembered, deeply missed, and eternally