John Henry Ryder

John Henry Ryder, 76, of Orange, VA, peacefully passed away at his residence on November 13, 2026. Born September 15, 1950, to Robert (Bobby) Rufus Ryder and Evie Marie Ryder in Charlottesville Virginia, and made his home in Orange, Virginia, where he built a life centered around his family, service, friendship and community.

He will be remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, great grandfather, friend, and a man whose heart was as big as the lives he touched.

John dedicated more that 20 years of his life to serving and protecting his community as a police officer. His commitment to others continued when he became a School Resource Officer at Orange County High School, where he had an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of countless students. Whether wearing his uniform or standing on the sidelines, John took pride in looking out for others and being someone people could count on.

His love for sports was a big part of who he was. He enjoyed coaching football, softball and wrestling, sharing not only his knowledge of the game but lessons about teamwork, dedication and perseverance. He was just as passionate about the things that brought him joy, including Motown music and trying his luck at the slots.

Above all else, John cherished his family. He was a devoted husband and father who loved his daughters and took great pride in his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He had a heart of gold and was the kind of person that would give you the shirt off his back without hesitation. His generosity, kindness, humor, and willingness to help others were just a few of the qualities that made him so special.

To those who knew and loved him, John was more than a father, grandfather, or friend. He was someone who left an impression, made memories, and gave of himself without expecting anything in return. His presence will be deeply missed, but the love he gave and the memories he created will live on through the generations of family he leaves behind.

John is survived by his daughters, Chasity Rickett, Crystal Henderson and husband Michael Henderson; his grandchildren, Cameron Rickett, Logan Douglas and wife Lauren, Carter Rickett, Kylie Rickett, and Jocelyn Henderson; and his great grandchildren, Brayden Rickett, Baylor Rickett, Blakely Rickett, Mason Douglas and Braelynn Messineo. Brother James (Jimmy) Ryder and sister Barbara Wood.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 45 years, Gayle McGhee Ryder; his parents, Robert (Bobby) Rufus Ryder and Evie Marie Ryder, grandparents Henry and Inez Sharp, brother Robert Ryder and several beloved aunts and uncles whom he loved dearly.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Preddy’s Funeral Home in Orange, VA. Service will be Monday November 16, 2026 at 3pm. Visitation will be 1 hour prior to service. Interment will be held at Graham Cemetery, Orange, VA.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in John’s memory to one of the following:

· The Orange County High School Athletic Program-201 Selma Rd Orange Va. 22960

· St Jude Children Research Hospital- 501 St Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105

· Orange Animal Shelter-Po Box 111 Orange, VA 22960

· Dementia Society of America-Po Box 600 Doylestown, PA 18901