Janet Almand Mauney

She is survived by her two sons: Richard E. Mauney, Jr (wife Mary S. Mauney) and M. Tyler Mauney; daughter Laura M. Mauney, four granddaughters, Veronica L. Miles, Grace C. Mauney, Clare T. Mauney, and Sarah B. Miles, two brothers, William V. Almand, Jr. and Charles P. Almand (wife Sarah Lee Almand), and her beloved dog Gypsy. She is the widow of Tallahassee architect Richard E. Mauney, Sr.

The daughter of the late William V. and Wilma P. Almand of Conyers, GA, Janet was a native of Bessemer, AL, and spent her childhood in Mobile, AL, Seattle, WA and Conyers, GA.

A noted artist, writer, and teacher, Janet earned a BFA and MFA in Art, and a Ph.D. in English (at the age of 65!) from Florida State University. She studied with Joe Moss, Karl Zerbe, Jerome Stern, and Janet Burroway.

Known for her abstract paintings and whimsical illustrations, Janet’s artwork has won many awards and has been on show in public and private locations throughout the southeast for over half a century. Janet’s short fiction has been published in collections of Alabama writers by the Livingston Press and Solomon and George.

Janet taught art, literature and writing at colleges throughout the south, including Valdosta State University, Florida State University, Thomas College, Bainbridge College, The University of Alabama, Talladega College, and Auburn University. She was also a Lamaze teacher in Tallahassee for a short time and helped many local parents bring their children into the world.

As a professional, loving and attentive working –mother, Janet was ahead of her time, and served as a great and inspiring role model for her children and grandchildren. Easy to get to know and an excellent conversationalist, Janet showed a generous and welcoming spirit toward her students, friends, and family, and often invited people living away from home to her holiday feasts.

Janet also possessed a fierce, fighting spirit. She sustained and enjoyed her life, family and friends for 17 months after a diagnosis of Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Instead of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Foundation, the Tallahassee Memorial Cancer Center, or Ability First.

Those interested in attending a memorial service for Janet can contact the family.