Jo-Ann (Schmader) Ryder

     Jo Ann Ryder, 83, of Massillon, passed away quietly but expectedly, late Sunday afternoon, June 25, 2023, following a period of declining health. Born in Massillon, April 4, 1940, a daughter to the late Joseph and Pauline (Kilway) Schmader, Jo Ann graduated from Canton Central Catholic High School with the Class of 1958. She had worked in the loan department of the former First National Bank in Massillon and retired after more than twenty years of dedicated service as the office manager for Atkinson Feucht Shaidnagle (now Atkinson Feucht Hare) Funeral Homes in Massillon and Navarre.

     A life-member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Massillon, and a beloved mom, grandma, sister and aunt, Jo Ann was dedicated to her family. She set a high standard for professionalism, precision, and attention to detail in her work life and in her personal life. But she knew how to have a fun time and enjoy herself too. Whether it was for a few hours with friends on the golf course, a get-together with the girls from her card club, or just some private time at the end of the day, she made sure to take a minute for herself. A season ticket holder for more than fifty years, Jo Ann followed the fortunes of Massillon Tiger football every autumn without fail. She also served as a deputy registrar for the City of Massillon and was incredibly involved with the Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

     Predeceased by her parents, and a son, Kevin B. Watkins; Jo Ann is survived by her daughter, Lisa A. (Chris) Tunney, of Louisville, Ohio; her son Bryan J. Watkins, of Massillon; granddaughter, Courtney L. Martin, of Canton; sisters, Rita (Robert) Watkins and Betty (Vincent) Matecheck, all of Massillon, and Mary (John) Sutton, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

     Funeral services will be conducted at 7:00 p.m. Friday evening, June 30, 2023, at Atkinson Feucht Hare Funeral Home in Massillon. The family will receive condolences for one hour prior to the service, from 6:00 -7:00 p.m. in the funeral home. A private burial will follow at a later date.

     The family extends their thanks to all the widespread family and friends for their love and support, along with the doctors, nurses, and support staff at Sprenger/Rose Lane Healthcare in Massillon. Your memories and condolences are always welcome and may be added to our on-line guestbook at www.atkinsonfeucht.com.

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