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In memory of

John "Jack" Henry Ryder

St. Simons Island, GA, USA

October 18, 1928 - September 17, 2021

Oct 18, 1928 - Sep 17, 2021

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On September 17, 2021, John “Jack” Henry Ryder passed away at the age of 92, 41 days after his beloved wife, Jackie King Ryder. Jack was born on October 18, 1928 in Mineola, NY to Edward and Katherine Ryder. He spent his formative years on the family farm in New York and was a competitive bowler, ranked in NY. He then attended the University of Virginia and Officer Candidate School (OCS) for the Navy. He played baseball and basketball at UVA and was drafted by the farm club for the New York Giants. While at UVA, he was introduced to Jackie King, a student at Madison College who he married on April 17, 1954, and remained married to for 67 years. In short order, they had their “boys”, Michael, Craig and Tom Ryder. Jack was a Captain in the Navy and the coach of the Navy baseball team. Jack and Jackie lived in Portsmouth, VA for many years where he taught school and coached Varsity Men’s Basketball at Wilson High School, was the Assistant Principal for Harry Hunt Junior High School and eventually became the Principal at Churchland High School where he was a mentor for numerous young adults. After leaving Churchland, Jack went into administration as an Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent. After retiring in the 1990s, he and Jackie spent their time with family and friends and traveled the world. They eventually settled in St. Simons Island, GA, with their multitude of friends and were active members in the Wesley United Methodist Church community. Jack was an avid golfer and tennis player until his health prohibited him from doing so. Jack and Jackie frequently traveled to the Outer Banks, NC to be with family. He was a kind soul who cared deeply for his friends and family. He is survived by his sons, Michael (Lori), Craig (Tracy), and Thomas (Deanne); his grandchildren Christian, Erin (Jamie), Michelle, Winston, Katie (Spencer), Kyle, Jacob, Naomi, and Gavin; his great-grandchildren Connelly, Mason Lee, Killian, and Palmer; his sister-in-law Joanne King Rodgers; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Jacqueline King Ryder; his parents Edward and Katherine Ryder; his brother Edward Ryder; and his daughter-in-law Karen Hope Ryder. A graveside service will be held at 11 am, October 9, 2021 at Meadowbrook Memorial and Cremation Gardens, 4569 Shoulders Hill Road, Suffolk, Virginia 23435. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations to the American Cancer Society be made in Jack’s name.

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