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George Bryan leaves a legacy in...

George Bryan leaves a legacy in Mississippi’s business, golfing community

By: Frank Corder - January 6, 2023

Bryan is the former head of Bryan Food and CEO of Sara Lee.

The former President of Bryan Foods and later Chief Executive Officer for Sara Lee Foods has died.

George Bryan, a West Point, Mississippi native, was a longtime businessman with a philanthropic heart and love of golf. He had a deep appreciation for the Magnolia State and loved her people.

His entrepreneurial spirit led Bryan to found the Old Waverly Gold Club on the site of the historic Waverly Mansion which would later attract the U.S. Women’s Open to Mississippi. His vision for the club was to create a world-class destination for golf in the heart of the Mississippi Black Prairie.

He then partnered with Toxey Haas to found the Mossy Oak Golf Club, crafting the links out of what was once a dairy farm.

In 2000, Bryan was named as Mississippi State University’s National Alumnus. His support of both Mississippi State academics and athletics from his corporate and personal contributions helped the university grow, the foundation said.

Former Mississippi Governor Cliff Finch named Bryan an “Outstanding Mississippian” in 1979.

It is reported that Bryan died of natural causes.

About the Author(s)
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Frank Corder

For nearly two decades, Frank Corder has reported and offered analysis on government, public policy, elections, business and matters of faith. He is the Editor for Magnolia Tribune where he oversees the day-to-day content development. Frank’s interviews, articles, and columns have been syndicated throughout Mississippi as well as in various national publications. His resume includes appearances on the BBC, CBS News, ABC News, and Fox News, among others. Frank is a frequent analyst on radio and television, providing insight and commentary on the inner workings of the Magnolia State and beyond. During his career, Frank has interviewed government officials and candidates from City Halls to the White House, including Presidential candidates, White House officials, U.S. Senators, Congressmen, Cabinet Secretaries, and Governors. He previously hosted his own local radio and television programs and has managed private businesses in the financial, hospitality, and retail sectors. Frank has served his community as an elected City Councilman and as an Assistant/Acting City Manager. In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, he led the effort to plan Pascagoula's recovery and rebuilding which earned him recognition as Mississippi's Volunteer of the Year. Frank also led Pascagoula's municipal government out of a $14.5 million deficit, which the Mississippi State Auditor heralded as a model for other communities facing dire financial straits. As the president of the Pascagoula High School Quarterback Club, Frank has self-published "The Book of Pascagoula Football." He has been married for over 25 years and has two children, both of whom work in public education. Email Frank: frank@magnoliatribune.com