Dates
As the final chapter closes for Sybil Gryder's earthly life, who passed away on September 21, 2015, we are reminded of the kindness, beauty, and joy she has brought to all that have had the privilege of knowing her.
Born in Brady, Texas, October 12, 1938 to Preston and Edna Maye (Bloomer) Patton, Sybil spent her childhood on a ranch in Upton County. She attended school in Rankin, Texas from 1st grade to graduation in May 1956. She married the love of her life, Melvin Gryder on August 18th, 1956. As an only child, Sybil felt very welcome and enjoyed joining a large, friendly family that quickly grew to love and respect her. From that union they have three children: two daughters, Rana Anderson and husband Jack of Snyder, Texas, and Jefri Wilkinson and husband Brad Bolen of San Angelo, Texas; one son, Doug Gryder and wife Alison of Mertzon, Texas. Sybil is affectionately known as "Fiffle" by her four grandchildren: Megan Gee and husband Brian of Midland, Texas, Paige Hankins and husband Dex of San Angelo, Texas, Haley Sexton of Dallas, Texas, Amy Gryder of San Angelo, Texas, two step-grandchildren, Martin and Michele Montgomery of College Station, Texas, and two great grandchildren, Hudson and Clara Gee of Midland, Texas.
She is survived by brothers-in-law Ronnie Gryder and wife Becky of McKinney, Texas, Donnie Gryder and wife Doris of Ranger, Texas, Rodney Gryder and wife Pat of The Woodlands, Texas; sisters-in-law Sharon McKee and husband Frank of Lubbock, Texas, Sue Gryder of Kerrville, Texas and Candy Gryder of San Angelo, Texas; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many treasured friends; and a half-sister Tina Roland of Snyder, Texas.
Sybil was preceded in death by her parents, an infant brother, in-laws Arvel & Irene Gryder, Milton (Bid) Gryder, Larry Gryder, a dear aunt Audrey Rehm, and many dear friends.
Sybil worked alongside Melvin for many years when they owned and operated McCamey Lease Services in McCamey, Texas. She took great pride in keeping their business books balanced to the penny. She was an active member of Beta Sigma Phi during the 70's, and spent many weekends at Rough Canyon, Black Brush Point, or on Lake Amistad while Melvin fished in bass tournaments. They moved to Comanche, Texas in 1990 and again agriculture became an integral part of her life, where they farmed and ranched. They enjoyed senior citizen dances in that area and made many wonderful friends. She thoroughly enjoyed traveling across America in their motorhome and with tour groups.
Sybil was a fantastic cook, making pies, cakes, and cookies for daily pleasure as well as special family occasions and holidays. She was a member of the Methodist church, an avid reader, artist, gardener, and seamstress. Sybil's interest and research in genealogy and family history created deep roots and strong ties for all family members. She traced the family trees back for many generations, and instilled an appreciation for God's blessings, hard work, and accomplishments in us all. In a fast paced world, Sybil possessed tender loving Christian care, patience and appreciation for the miracles of nature. May we be reminded of the beautiful life of Sybil when we witness a hawk soaring high on currents above, a new bloom on a favorite plant, or baby birds as they mature and take first flight. Like the warm rays of the sun in Spring, we will remember Sybil Gryder as a warm, comforting, and beautiful light in our lives.
Graveside service is at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 25, 2015 in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. Arrangements are by Johnson's Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of San Angelo or the American Cancer Society .