Ryland Brant Godfrey, born December 20, 1978, in Huntsville, Alabama, passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Angel Medical Center. Ryland spent his early years in Alabama, Tennessee, and North Carolina before settling in Franklin, NC, where he made his home for the past two years.

Ryland had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and found joy in the mountains and waters of Western North Carolina. He loved cars, kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and boating especially around Nantahala and Fontana Lake, where he felt most at peace. He was a loving and devoted husband, and a good friend to many.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Debra Heine Champgne; his paternal grandparents, Roy Godfrey and his grandmother Barbara; and his maternal grandfather, Woody Heine.

Ryland is survived by his wife of six years, Jenni Godfrey; his father, Rick Godfrey, and stepmother, Martha Baker; his stepfather, Dan Champagne; his two half-brothers, Aaron Champagne and Colin Champagne; four nephews and three nieces; and his beloved Aussie Doodle, Clark, who rarely left his side.

At memorial service is planned in Monte Sano State Park, Huntsville for Mr. Godfrey with a date to be decided.

Ryland will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his kindness, and the quiet strength he carried with him through life. His memory will continue to live on in the mountains he loved and in the hearts of all who knew him.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.