Our quilt square is in memory of my dad, John (“Jack”) Newton Ryland, III. When I think of how he touched our lives, the first word that comes to mind is “admiration”. He was admired for many reasons. First and foremost was his love and commitment for my mother and not just marital commitment. He was committed to making her happy. If it was important to her, it became important to him. My parents were happily married for almost 60 years and during his last days, his only concerns was for my Mom’s well being and not his own impending mortality. He also instilled in us a core value system that defined who he was. A man who kept promises, honored commitment and known for his integrity. My dad was affectionately known as “Peepaw” to his three grandchildren and his one great-granddaughter. He served as a Turret Artillery Mechanic in the United States Army Third Armored Division during the Korean War and was honorably discharged. As an architectural engineer, he designed and manufactured custom casework and cabinetry. My dad dabbled in photography and was owner of Ryland Photographic spending many weekends taking pictures for both the Bush and Winston Cup Race Series. He loved football and was an avid Virginia Tech fan. Vacations were spent at the beach, a favorite spot where he enjoyed eating seafood and relaxing in the sun. He was a hands on dad and we were proud to have our own superhero.
Submitted by: Suzanne, Donor Daughter
