Jan New, 88, of Valdosta, Georgia, passed peacefully on September 28, 2026, while holding a family picture album. She was 88. She was born on January 6, 1938 in Gainesville, Georgia, to the late Christene and Tom Bernhardt.

Jan was a resident of Valdosta, Georgia, since 1973. She was married for 59 years to the love of her life, William “Bill” H. New, Sr., who preceded her in death. Together they shared a life marked by faith, service, and family.

Jan was the proud mother of three, grandmother of six affectionately known as Grandma and great-grandmother of three who called her Grammy.

She was also a spiritual mother to hundreds. For 50 years she taught elementary Sunday school, planting deep roots of faith in the lives of children. A true Proverbs 31 woman, she exemplified wisdom, strength, and grace. She helped plant two churches in Valdosta and served for decades as a spiritual mentor whose depth of insight was sought by many for both spiritual and practical counsel.

Music remained a joy throughout her life. She loved playing the piano, and she served as pianist in several churches during her life. She continued to play every day at Langdale Place even until the day before she entered eternity.

Mrs. New worked as church and music secretary for First Baptist Church Valdosta, as well as church secretary for Pine Grove Community Baptist Church.

She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Amy & Clyde McClain of Dunwoody, GA, and Becky & Jay Revis of Peachtree Corners, GA; son and daughter-in-law, Bill & Jennifer New of Hahira, GA; daughter, Rhonda & Mark Brittain of Birmingham, AL; grandchildren, Brenna McClain (Alex Malave) of Winter Springs, FL, Cara McClain Hill (Conor Hill) of Atlanta, GA, Jacob Revis of Peachtree Corners, GA; Morgan Alayna New of Whigham, GA, and Ashley (K.J) Ruehle of Hahira, GA; great-grandchildren, Gavin and Gage Bilak, and Blakely Ruehle; and brother and sister-in-law James & Joan Bernhardt of Miami, FL.; and the many whose lives she touched as a spiritual mother and mentor.

Jan’s legacy of faith, wisdom, and love will continue to inspire all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, William Harry New, Sr.; and grandson, Noah Larkin New.

A memorial service for Mrs. New will take place on Saturday, October 10 at 3 p.m.at Greenwood Baptist Church. The family will receive friends prior to the service at the church from 1 - 3 p.m. Online condolences may be shared on the obituary page at www.mclanecares.com. Carson McLane Funeral Home