John Clifford Ryles

Mr. John Clifford Ryles, better known to his family and friends as JC, age 84, of Hazlehurst, passed away Monday, April 21, 2025, at his residence.

Mr. Ryles was born March 02, 1941, in Jeff Davis County where he was raised and lived his whole life. He met his beloved wife, Carolyn, at a candy pulling just down the road from where they would later build their life. His generous heart led him to extend a helping hand to anyone in need, regardless of whether he knew them or not. Demonstrating remarkable work ethic from a young age, he chose to forgo his 9th-grade year to dip turpentine, ensuring that his family could keep their farm. A hard worker through and through, he left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He was a devoted Christian who loved the Lord and spending time in His word. In his leisure time, he found joy in flying his powered parachute, embracing the thrill of flight. An athlete at heart, he was a proud member of the last state championship basketball team at Jeff Davis High School in 1958, where his talent and dedication earned him the MVP award in 1959.

He possessed an incredible ability to build, create, and repair anything, from bridges across creeks to playhouses for his grandchildren, and even heavy machinery equipment. If he encountered a challenge he didn’t initially know how to tackle, he approached it with determination and resourcefulness, embodying the spirit of a true jack-of-all-trades. He dedicated his talents to crafting meaningful creations for his family, leaving behind memories that will be cherished for generations.

He is preceded in death by his parents, John Clifford Ryles, Sr., and Louise Spell Ryles; his grand-daughter, Mandy Johnson, and his great-grandson, Banks Taylor.

Mr. Ryles is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mrs. Carolyn Ryles of Hazlehurst; his son, Johnny Ryles (Rhonda) of Hazlehurst; his daughter, Trisha Taylor (Loyal) of Baxley; his brothers, Jimmie Ryles (Arlene) of Hazlehurst, and Royce Ryles (Vickie) of Hendersonville, NC; his grandchildren, Matthew Taylor (Briana) of Alma, Jaiden Long (Jordan) of Baxley, and Jace Ryles (Kelsie) of Baxley; his great-grandchildren, Rylan, Breck, Hadley, Rem, Arli, Rhyli, Walker, and Weston; his brother-in-law and business partner of 30 years, Buddy Stone (Linda) of Hazlehurst, and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 24, 2025 from 5:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025 at 1:00 P.M. at Bridgeford Church of God with Jimmie Ryles speaking. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Matthew Taylor, Jace Ryles, Jordan Long, Johnny Ryles, Richard Ryles, and Sabe Ryles.

Honorary pallbearers will be Buddy and Linda Stone, Keith Harold, James Harold, Jay McPhearson, Faye and Howard Ray, Peggy and Charlie Leggett, Leland and Trisha Hughes, Francisco Castillo, his Bethany Hospice Caregivers, including Nickie Johnson, Oral and Linda Shumans, Wade, Greg, and Danny Ross, Stan and Martina Layport, and all friends in attendance.

The family may be contacted at the Ryles residence, 572 Mims Chapel Road, Alma.

Wainright-Parlor and the Ryles Family are in charge of all arrangements.      

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