Barnard Bruce Bryant, 72, of Asheville, NC, passed away Tuesday, January 13, 2026, after an extended illness. Barney was born October 2, 1953, and was the son of the late Bruce and Freda Bryant. He grew up in Franklin, NC and graduated from Franklin High School in 1970. Barney attended Mars Hill College and later graduated from Sandhills Community College with an emphasis of study in horticulture and landscaping. He founded the Wagon Peddler, an outdoor gear and gift store, in downtown Franklin. After studying at Sandhills, he founded B.B. Barns Garden Center and Landscaping Company in Asheville, NC. Through B.B. Barns and his business partnership with Ned Gibson, Barney served the community for over 35 years, leaving a legacy of craftsmanship, generosity, integrity, and care. Barney enjoyed trout fishing, canoeing, and hiking. His passion for plants and his genuine love for others made a lasting impression on people throughout Western North Carolina.

Barney was a member of City Church of Asheville, where he was a steady encouragement and a friend whose kindness reflected his love for Christ.

Barney is survived by his sister, Pamela Bryant Bailey (David); his nephew, Matthew Myron Bailey (Kelly) and his niece, Catherine Bailey Ruff (Clay); along with three great nephews and a great niece. He leaves many other close friends that he considered to be family, including his sweet golden lab, Nugget.

Barney’s service will be at City Church of Asheville, NC at the Foster Sanctuary Seventh Day Adventist Church at 375 Hendersonville Rd., Asheville, NC 28803.

We all know how much he loved flowers, so in lieu of flowers, we ask that you consider a donation to the Mercy Fund of City Church of Asheville, PO Box 1378, Asheville, NC 28802.

A celebration of life with Barney will be held in early spring in Franklin, NC. We will honor his love for flowers and God’s beautiful Spring in WNC. Service information will follow.

With faith as his compass, Barney now rests in the peace of Heaven.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home in Franklin is serving the family.