Devoy Ryan's Obituary
Dr. Ryan died the morning of March 31, 2013 in Kingwood, Texas at age 96. He was born in Shaburg, Arkansas to Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Ryan. He occasionally talked of his many fond childhood memories with his brothers and sisters on their Missouri farm. Devoy started college in 1938 at Southwest Missouri State and achieved a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. He served as an Naval Officer, on a ship in the Pacific, during WWII. When he returned home, he continued his education at the University of Missouri and received Masters and Doctor of Education Degrees.After teaching and serving as an administrator in several Missouri School Districts, Devoy accepted a position as a professor at East Texas State College. Later, he was a professor at the University of New Mexico. In 1982, he retired as an Associate Dean of the College of Education at Memphis State University. He liked playing golf, working on the computer, and enjoyed good sound/recording systems on his TV.He is survived by his wife of over 75 years, Leota Mae Ryan, his brother Jack L. Ryan and wife Ginny, his daughter Jeanette Madge Paroz and husband Roger. His son, Dr. Allen D. Ryan, predeceased him due to an unfortunate accident in 1999. He is also survived by two grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Devoy will be deeply missed by his friends and family. The family will receive friends from 1:30 p.m. until the funeral service begins at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, April 14, 2013 at Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to your charity or the American Cancer Society.Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Ave. Memphis, TN 38119, (901)767-8930, “Behind the Stone Wall”.
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