Shelia Gower Ryder

She was born April 18, 1949 in Portsmouth, Virginia.

Shelia lived her life to the fullest, focusing primarily on caring for others. The majority of her career was spent in the insurance industry as an underwriter (Cigna, Johnson, Higgins, Aetna). She received her Bible degree later in life, graduating from Liberty University Bible College. Shelia also spent many years working at the BARE Foster Care Foundation; and, she cared for both her mother and her father in their final years. In her free time, you might have found her crafting, baking, or attending Bible studies. Shelia was the "lightning rod of faith " for her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her dear parents, Earl Gower and Audrey Ellis Gower.

Shelia is survived by her son, Edward Ryder, Jr. (Kelley), and her daughter, Amy Ryder Adams (Jason); four siblings, Connie Davis, Pat Miller, Debbie McDuff, and Elmo Gower; and six grandchildren, Carter Ryder, Matthew Ryder, Emma Ryder, Bailey Ryder, Justin Adams, and Christian Adams.

Please join us on Saturday, November 15 at 10:30am for a Celebration of Shelia's Life. Scroll for details.

Kind condolences may be offered in our "Add a Memory" section below.