Arzelia made her transition back to Spirit on Friday, March 2, 2018 at the age of 98 years surrounded by her family. She was born on April 7, 1919 in Weleetka, Oklahoma as one of five children to Frances ( nee Burleson) and Judge Collins. By 1929, her family had relocated to Kansas City, Missouri where she met and married James Bryant Jr. who preceded her in death. Born to them were Juanita (nee Bryant) Melton, the late Lester Bryant and Barbara Bryant. In 1942, James, Arzelia and Juanita relocated to Milwaukee where James had other relatives.In 1953 Arzelia, at the age of 34, was hired by Milwaukee County Asylum as a Hospital Attendant in South Division. She worked in that capacity for 15 years. In 1968, the County offered a program for qualified attendants to be trained as Licensed Practical Nurses. Arzelia decided to step-up to the challenge and opportunity of on-the-job training and collegiate learning. The program was done in partnership with Milwaukee Area Technical College. She successfully completed the program and worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse for the next 13 years. All in all, Arzelia was employed by and retired from Milwaukee County on October 3, 1981 after 28 years of service.When Arzelia became stricken by dementia at the age of 96, she continued to be mentally strong but physically weak until she lost her strength on Friday, March 2, 2018. She leaves behind her two daughters, Juanita and Barbara and one grandson, Jeff W. Melton III of California. She will also be greatly missed by her younger sister, Dorothy Johnson of Los Angeles, California and a host of other relatives and friends.
Per Arzelia’s wishes, no services will be held.
