Walter Rylander, Jr.

Mr. Walter Rylander, Jr. passed away on Friday, September 4, 2026 at his home in Americus.

A memorial visitation is planned for Tuesday, September 8, between the hours of 5:00 and 6:00 PM, at Hancock Funeral Home, 427 S. Lee St.  Burial services will be private.

Born October 26, 1946, he was the son of the late Walter Rylander, Sr. and the late Alice Walker Rylander. Walter quickly nicknamed his only son "Buckshot", a name that lasted all his life. Buck was born in Americus and attended Americus public schools, graduating in the class of 1964.  As a child, he loved his pets as if they were sisters and brothers. He enjoyed all sports, especially football, and swimming and diving at the Americus Country Club pool. He was a devoted Boy Scout, attended camps every summer, and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.  In high school, he participated in football and wrestling, and also became an excellent dancer, a love that lasted throughout his life.  He graduated from the University of Georgia, was a member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity, and was a lifelong Bulldog fan.  After college, he served our country as a Lieutenant in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

He worked as sales manager and marketing for wholesale beer distribution in Brunswick and Savannah, and then in Colorado Springs, Colorado.  He later worked for Carlus Gay Equipment and Grant Stepp in marketing, and retired from Rainbow Fertilizer after 17 years as a truck dispatcher.

He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Dana Osborne Rylander; stepchildren: Leslie Kobs and fiancé Brian Cooper and Kent Kobs and wife Kristy; step-grandchildren: Landon Spivey, Sydnee Kobs and Kason Kobs; and his special doggie pets Charlie and Rusty.

Buck was always full of smiles and quick wit, and he enjoyed old and new friends throughout his life.  He will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to Phoebe Sumter Hospice, P.O. Box 1434, Americus, GA 31709; or to a charity of choice.

To sign our online guestbook and express your condolences to the family, please visit www.hancockfuneralhomeinc.com

Hancock Funeral Home, 427 S. Lee St., is honored to be entrusted with these arrangements for Mr. Walter Rylander, Jr.