Bryan Almand, 78, of Valdosta, passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 19, 1946, in Macon, GA, he was the son of Otis Hale Almand, Sr. and Doris Rowland Almand. He grew up in Warner Robins and graduated from Valdosta State College in 1968 with a major in biology. He began a career in real estate appraisal and in 1977 moved to Valdosta and opened Almand & Co., where he was known as a knowledgeable, fair and well-respected appraiser until his retirement in June.

He was a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church where he was baptized in 1983. He attended the Men’s Bible Class and served as a deacon, elder, and most recently as the greeter at the Magnolia Street door. He cherished his church family.

Bryan was a founding member of the Whiskey River Club. What started as an occasional poker game became a monthly gathering for food, fellowship and the telling of tall tales. This unique group of men enjoyed these get-togethers and generously gave to the Empty Stocking Fund, raising thousands of dollars each year.

In his earlier years, he was an avid golfer and spent many afternoons playing with “The Herd” at Valdosta Country Club. In 1988 he won the prestigious Jack Oliver Golf Tournament. Granted, the tourney was shortened by a day because of rain, but a win is a win!

Bryan was a skilled woodworker and enjoyed creating all kinds of projects in his shop. He made everything from jewelry boxes to plant stands, tables and a prayer bench for the church. He loved sharing his handiwork with family and friends.

His greatest joy was gardening which was an almost year-round activity. He loved sharing his produce, pole beans, broccoli, peppers and the best tomatoes! He turned the side yard into the “Grove” with all kinds of citrus trees. It wasn’t unusual to see friends and neighbors wandering through the trees harvesting grapefruit, kumquats, satsumas and lemons.

Bryan was a generous and loving son, brother, husband, father and grandfather. In addition to his parents, he is pre-deceased by his brother, Hale Almand, Jr. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Sissy, his children, Jenny (Donny) Creel, Missy (Matt) Huddleston and Will (Erica) Almand and grandchildren Bryan and Josi Howe, Dori Creel, Dillon and Emma Huddleston, Evan, Micah and Ella Kayte Almand.

It was his wish to be cremated. A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 2PM. The family will receive visitors in the overflow room of the church prior to the service at 1 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made First Presbyterian Church General Fund or Break Bread Together, PO Box 1094, Valdosta, GA 31603. Online memories and condolences may be shared on the obituary page at www.mclanecares.com

Carson McLane Funeral Home