Alma Byrd

(Byrd) Vann

Mother Alma Byrd Hunter Vann, the daughter of the late Eddie and Mary Lee Hunter, was born December 20, 1929, in Stephens, GA, and was the third of five children. Sister Vann was preceded in death by her parents and 2 brothers, namely; James and Eddie Lee Hunter.

At the age of 86, God sent his Angels of mercy to escort Sister Vann from her labor to be with our Lord and Savior.

She was reared in a Christian home, baptized and joined the Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Stephens, GA. Alma attended elementary school in Oglethorpe County, GA and graduated from high school in Athens, GA in 1947. She furthered her education and received her Bachelor's degree from Savannah State College in Elementary Education. She earned her Master's degree from Tuskegee College and a Specialist degree from Florida State University.

While teaching in Oglethorpe County, GA, George Alphonso Vann caught her eye and captured her heart. They married April 19, 1959. Shortly after marrying, they moved to Vernon, FL and became servants to Christ and the community.

Sister Vann's love for Christ was evident in the many years she served at Shiloh MBC as Church Mother, Church Clerk, Sunday School Teacher and Deaconess. Her relationship with Christ was genuine and deep. It was shown in her service and her delicious meals that would be waiting those who worshipped at Shiloh MBC. She was very active in the Progressive District of West Florida Association and remained active until her health hindered her attendance.

Sister Alma transformed lives of children and adults with her involvement in various community and civic affiliations. These included NAACP Life Member, Les Jolie Dames, Council on Aging, Democratic Executive Committee, Pall Bearers Association, Washington County Retired Educators Association and Vernon High School Mentoring Program.

She leaves to cherish her memories; Husband of 56 years, Dea. George A. Vann of Vernon, FL; one daughter, Muriel Vann of Tallahassee, FL; three sons, Oswald Vann of Bonifay, FL, Terence Vann of Rex, GA and Romontey Vann (Charlcie) of Anniston, AL; two sisters, Gladys Neason of Atlanta, GA and Jannie Smith of Stephens, GA; two sisters-in-law, Mary and Rebecca Hunter of Stephens, GA; 7 grandchildren - Vonshell C. Vann, Antoine J. Vann, Xavier R. Vann, Sterling A. Vann, Nathan A. Vann, Trinity M. Vann and Miniya G. P. Vann; 1 great grandchild – Brandon Carroll; a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Sis. Vann was a caring, God fearing woman who believed in doing the right thing and serving others through her love for Christ. We know she is forever blessed and highly favored. To know her was to love her because from day-to-day she brought such happiness to those she met along the way. The memories she leaves behind will always linger in our hearts and minds.