Arnold Lee Ryder
Arnold (Arnie) Lee Ryder, 75, of Simpsonville, husband of Virginia Ryder passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, April 11, 2024.
Arnie was Born in Syracuse, New York, the eldest of 12 of the late Leon and Eileen Ryder.
Siblings – Ashley, James, Kathleen, Jerry, Kenneth, Julie, Patricia, Eileen, Paul, Michael, and Teresa.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughters, Lisa Marie Ryder, Monica Bowers, Zierra Bowers and sons Derrick Perry, Scotty Perry, Dustin Perry, and Levi Ryder. He was preceded in death by a sister, Teresa Gillette.
Arnie earned the purple heart medal for injuries sustained as a Marine Corp Veteran serving in the Vietnam War. He was proud of his military service, but he never talked much about it, and was not seen with a firearm again for the rest of his days.
Arnie was a man of tremendous faith, courage, honor, and a deep conviction for selfless service to others. He dedicated his life to making the world a better place by sharing his kindness and compassion. He was a loving and patient and fun person, who loved music, art, and a good comedy movie as long as it didn’t have too much swearing in it.
Although the last 20 years of his life were a struggle dealing with difficult health problems, he never lost his sense of humor and never stopped worrying about other people.
Everything great about this man, Arnold Ryder, cannot be squeezed into this little space, but he was great, and he will be missed. The world was better because he was in it, and we are better for having known him.
For Arnie, do something kind for someone who needs it. Open your heart and do for others what you would want done for you.
A Graveside Service will be held on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at 1 PM, at MJ Dolly Cooper Veterans Cemetery at 140 Inway Dr. Anderson, SC 29621.
Flowers may be sent to Cannon-Byrd Funeral Home – Simpsonville at 313 North Main St. Simpsonville, SC 29681.
Heartfelt condolences from the Staff of Heartland Hospice.
Virginia, Levi and family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Arnie was a very strong man who endured so much. Take comfort that he is at peace in his heavenly home.
Virginia, Zierra, Levi, and rest of family:
You are in my prayers and have been way before this happened. It had been a long time since I had seen him, but kept up with him thru my best friend, Virginia. She loved him so much! She shared stories and memories of them with me. Although battling health issues, 2 ER trips, surgeries, rehab herself since 2 falls in Jan; she has tirelessly been his # 1 caretaker and by his side almost non stop. The love they shared was one of a kind, truly in sickness & in health, till death do you part! He doted on her, his children; & especially Levi & Zierra. He will be missed by all! Love you, Virginia!