J.W. Ryans

J.W. Ryans, 80, of Kingsport, born September 8, 1933, departed for heaven January 28, 2014 surrounded by his family singing hymns and reading scriptures. He lived his entire life in Sullivan County and married the love of his life, Mary White Ryans, on January 24, 1955. He worked construction for 50 years with Baxter Byerley Construction, PC Cooper Construction, White Construction and James Gilliam Construction. He was considered the best concrete finisher in the area. J.W. was a member of Fairview Holiness Church of Jesus Christ where he served for 25 years as a Sunday School Superintendent.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Will and Jossie Ryans; infant son, Michael; brothers, Glenn, Ray "Red", Homer, Ben and Bill; sisters, Maude and Mae Ryans Moore; and his beloved grandson, Brad Carter, who he thought of as a son.

J.W. is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Mary White Ryans; daughter, Jennette Ryans Carter; sons, Glen Ryans, and Chris Ryans and wife, Stephanie; grandchildren, Matt Ryans and fiancée, Victoria, and Amber Ryans; and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to give a special thanks to the doctors and nurses at Wellmont, Carey with Smoky Mountain Hospice, Cindy and Tip Defreece, Judy Martin at Wellmont, Kelly Pitts, Betty White and Carol Hensley. And special love to his nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Saturday from 6-8:00 pm at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport and at any time at the residence.

Funeral services will be conducted on Sunday at 2:00 pm at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport with Rev. Mark Sexton, Rev. Leonard Dixon and Evangelist Shelton Meade officiating. Music will be by The Heavenly Reflections, and Leonard and Cheryl Dixon. Burial will follow the funeral service in Mullins Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Perry Dykes, Larry Ryans, Jimmy Ryans, Billy Ryans, Anthony Moore, Danny Moore, Randy Mullenix and Charles Byrd. Honorary pallbearers will be Benton Rasnake, P.C. White, Buddy Goad, John Arnold and Roy Ward.

Memorial contributions may be made to Mary Ryans for the medical and funeral expenses.

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