In Loving Memory of Terry Breyman
Mr. Terrance (Terry) Breyman, age 76, of Savannah, passed away at home on Thursday, May 22, 2025. He was born on November 24, 1948, in Findlay, Ohio, where he grew up and showed his drive for success early by attaining the rank of Eagle Scout.
Terry was predeceased by his father, Hollis Breyman, his mother, Helen Smith Breyman, and his sister, Barbara Liupakka. He is survived by his devoted wife, Terri Breyman; his nephew, Max Liupakka of Tucson, AZ; his aunt, Kate Havens of Tucson, AZ; and many beloved cousins.
After graduating from Findlay High School, Terry headed to the University of Alabama, Huntsville, where he received his undergraduate degree. During a term he spent in Tuscaloosa, he met the legendary coach Bear Bryant. A big deal for an Alabama fan! He went on to Bowling Green State University, where he received his Master’s Degree in Biology.
Terry began his professional career in environmental restoration within the private sector in Buffalo, N.Y., and later embarked on a more than 30-year career as a civilian with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Los Angeles. He subsequently relocated to Washington, D.C., where he participated in the technical review of civil works projects nationwide. His environmental expertise was recognized, and he was promoted to the Assistant Secretary of the Army’s office in the Pentagon. A six-month assignment at the White House’s Council on Environmental Quality lasted three years. Before retirement, he returned to his position in the Pentagon. During his career, Terry received many awards and commendations, including The de Fleury Medal, the highest award for professional excellence in the Engineer Regiment.
Terry’s most memorable assignment in the private sector was the environmental restoration work on the Alaska Pipeline. During his last trip to Anchorage, he met his wife, Terri. Six months later, they were married in Buffalo, New York, and began a 45-year journey that took them to Los Angeles and Northern Virginia, and ultimately led them to retire in Savannah, Georgia, where they spent fourteen wonderful years.
Terry has always given back to his community, and in retirement, this commitment continued. He served on the Church Council of the Messiah Lutheran Church of Skidaway Island, on the Landings Association Board, and on two association water committees for many years. He was also a member of the Kiwanis Club, Elks, and the Sons of the American Legion.
Despite his active civic life, Terry was always ready to play golf (so he could spend more time with his lovely wife) and brew and taste beer with his friend Ken. He discovered a new passion in retirement and was always eager to set out on wildlife photo shoots with his dear friend, Diane, and participate in the Landings Photo Club and Art Association. As a member of the Men’s Gourmet Club, he excelled in his chocolate crème brûlée (Terri’s favorite).
Terry will be remembered for his kindness, his generosity of time, his unwavering loyalty, his love of nature, and family. He will be missed.
A private service will be held at a later date. Donations may be made to your local cancer society.