Joan (Alex) Ryder

Joan A. Ryder (nee Alex), affectionately known as JAR, passed away March 28, 2018 surrounded by her children. She was a long time resident of New Cumberland, PA and parishioner of Trinity Lutheran Church.

Joan was born October 13, 1934 in Frackville, PA to the late Frank and Theresa Alex. She was the loving wife of the late Newell M. Ryder and was a devoted mother to her 3 children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Joan is survived by her three children: Daughter, Karen Ryder Napp of Madison NJ, and Sons Karl A. Ryder (Valerie Darling) of Flowery Branch, Ga and Michael D. Ryder of San Francisco, CA.

Her three grandchildren: Erik Napp (Kristen Ehinger), Marc Napp and Sydney Ryder, as well as her two great grandchildren, twins Whitney Ryder Napp and Riley Anne Napp.
She is also survived by her brother Leonard Alex of Lancaster, PA.

Joan graduated from Frackville High School, where she was an active participant in student government, a majorette and voted by her senior class for: “just being her own sweet self” and the Smiling Senior. She graduated from Lycoming College where she was Vice President of her class and was a Kappa Delta Rho Fraternity sweet heart. It was at Lycoming that she met her husband Newell. They settled in Camp Hill and New Cumberland where they raised their 3 children.

Joan was an administrative assistant to the guidance department at Cedar Cliff High School for 25 years, where she worked with and helped thousands of students and their families as well as the staff for Cedar Cliff. Joan’s smile and infectious laugh brought a distinct happiness to the department. On her retirement the mailroom was named in her honor. Joan was known for her flair for fashion, her love of exercising, loyalty to her friends and again her laugh. She founded Stag investment club where she and many of her friends enjoyed investing and camaraderie.

A visitation will be held Friday April 20, 2018 from 6-8 PM at Parthemore Funeral Home, 1303 Bridge Street, New Cumberland, PA 17070.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday April 21, 2018 10:00 AM at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2000 Chestnut Street, Camp Hill, PA 17011. The family will receive visitors as well at 9:30 AM prior to the service.

Following the Memorial Service Burial will be at Rolling Green Memorial, location H-10.

To send messages of condolence to Joan’s family or for driving directions, please visit www.Parthemore.com .