Ralph Douglas Ryder

Ralph Douglas Ryder was born December 27, 1939, in Culpeper, Virginia. He was the youngest of eight children born to James and Elsie Ryder. Ralph was affectionately called “Butch” by his family. Ralph graduated from Madison High School, Madison, Virginia. Ralph enlisted into the United States Marine Corps November 8, 1961, and served his country faithfully until his honorable discharge after four years and seven months. During his time in the military, Ralph served during the Vietnam War and earned several medals to include the National Defense Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Vietnamese Service Medal. Ralph met the love of his life, Nancy Lynn Lay, in 2003 through mutual NASA friends. After meeting they found out that they both started working at NASA on the same day, June 24, 1968. Ralph and Nancy were united in marriage May 28, 2006, in Rochele, Virginia. In 2008, they made Salem, Missouri, their home which brought them closer to family. Ralph and Nancy were blessed to share eighteen years creating lasting memories together. Ralph took great pride in his work as a heavy equipment operator and truly enjoyed his time on the NASA Team. Ralph was known as “Ralph of all Trades” and always kept himself busy tinkering on something. In his spare time, he enjoyed going to estate sales and auctions. Ralph loved going scuba diving along the east coast and looking for treasures underwater. He has found several sunken ships from Nova Scotia to Bonnaire. His faith and family were most important to him. Ralph loved spending time making memories with his family. For the last ten years, he faithfully attended Salem Full Gospel Church. His love for the Lord was shown in everything he did. Ralph also served as chaplain for the VFW in Maryland. Ralph entered into eternal rest April 3, 2024, in Houston, Missouri, at the age of eighty-four years. Those left behind to treasure his memory include his loving wife: Nancy Ryder of Salem, MO; brother: Melvin Ryder and wife Dee of Orange, Virginia; niece: Thelma Preisser; and great-nephews: Richard and Paul; sister-in-law’s: Carol Redmond of Seabrook, MD, Diane Sensintaffar and husband Larry of Nixa, MO, formerly of Salem, and Janice Slaughter of Odenton, MD; extended family and dear friends. Preceding him in death were his parents: James and Elsie Ryder; and six siblings. Ralph will be remembered for his strong-willed personality. He was a devoted husband and proud Marine Veteran. Ralph will be forever missed by those who loved him most. Once A Marine Always A Marine! Memorial Services for Ralph Douglas Ryder were held Sunday, April 7, 2024, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Bill Stack officiating. A eulogy was shared by his great-nephew, Wilson. Special Music was provided by Sheri Stack singing “The Old Rugged Cross”, “I’ll Fly Away”, and “Goodness of God”. Military Honors was provided by the United States Marine Corps and American Legion Post 99. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Ralph Ryder to Salem Full Gospel for ministry programs and left with Wilson Mortuary. Memorial Envelopes will be available. Online Condolences may be entered at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Ralph Douglas Ryder

December 27, 1939 - April 3, 2024