Grammy-nominated singer and Christian activist Anita Bryant has passed away at the age of 84. The singer died peacefully at her home in Edmond, Oklahoma, last month.
Here’s what you need to know about the life and legacy of Anita Bryant.
Anita Bryant passes away at 84
An official obituary confirmed that Anita Bryant died on December 16, 2024, surrounded by her family and friends. The announcement highlighted her steadfast Christian faith and the support of her church community, which aims to carry on her work. She is survived by four children, two stepdaughters, and seven grandchildren, all of whom will remember her legacy.
Bryant was born on March 25, 1940, in Barnsdall, Oklahoma. Throughout her life, her Christian faith served as a guiding principle. She pursued a career in entertainment that began at the age of 12 when she landed a television show.
A versatile performer, Bryant was not only a singer but also a winner of the 1958 Miss Oklahoma beauty pageant. She gained fame as the brand ambassador for the Florida Citrus Commission, a position she held until 1980. Her catchy slogan, “Breakfast without orange juice is like a day without sunshine,” became iconic during her tenure.
In a revealing interview, she explained her motivations, expressing concerns about what she perceived as a threat to traditional values. Her outspoken views on the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals sparked significant backlash and protests, leading to boycotts of Florida orange juice and reports of financial losses in her concert bookings.
