She was born on April 16, 1945, to Carrie and Arthur Ryles Sr. in Eufaula, Alabama. Mary graduated at the age of 16 from Eufaula High School in Eufaula, Alabama. After high school, she continued her studies receiving a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Columbus College in Columbus, Georgia. Dedicated to her career, she became a teacher and pursued her Master’s Degree in Education at Georgia State in Atlanta, Georgia, where she then went on to become a school principal. She then attended Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee and received her PhD in Education.
She enjoyed traveling throughout the continent and making memories wherever she went. She was always eager to sit and debate about politics, as well as watching her old western movies, college football, pro-football, and QVC. She was a devoted Christian who was always praising God every chance she could and a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church. A kind and loving soul, she will be missed dearly by her friends, families, and peers.
Mary is survived by her nieces and nephews, Christopher V. Ryles, Bruce B. Ryles, Kimberley Ryles, Thaxter Ryles, Reggie Ryles, Rodney Ryles, Anthony Ryles, Edward Ryles (ShaQuel), Freddie Ryles Jr. (Trina), and Wanda Hill (Johnny); her great niece, Kymberley Q. Wiley; her great nephew, George LaVonle Wiley III (Ruby); a host of nieces and nephews; as well as her special friends, Ms. Mary Speed and Ms. Patricia Brooks.
A Celebration of Life Funeral Service, Pastor Brad Arnholt officiating, will be held on Friday, November 1, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 621 17th Ave, Columbus, Georgia 31906. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow the service at Parkhill Cemetery, 4161 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907. The repass will take place directly after the burial at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary in the Mill Room, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be made for Dr. Mary R. Ryles Sanks at www.shcolumbus.com
