Marcella "Wilma" Jean Ryan, 86, of Lead, SD, died Saturday, February 11, 2023, at Monument Home Plus Hospice in Rapid City, SD.

Wilma was born in Hot Springs, SD, on April 18, 1936. She was adopted by Joseph and Aurel Steele at 6 months old. She spent her early years at Englewood, Deadwood, and then Central City. She married David Ryan on July 30, 1955, and made their home in rural Lead where they raised their 3 children. When David passed away, she moved into Lead.

Wilma was a homemaker. In her younger years she enjoyed fishing, camping, and bowling. She was a member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary Club in Deadwood for over 50 years.

Family was important to her. She loved family gatherings and seeing all the grandchildren. She had an in canny way of knowing everyone's birthday and age at any given time.

Getting baptized was always something she talked about. Her faith was very important to her in her final days. This past summer she was baptized as a Jehovah Witness.

Survivors include her children, Jerry (Brenda) Ryan, Ray (Aileen) Ryan of Lead, SD, and JoAnna (Walt) Taylor of Spearfish, SD; grandchildren, Billie Jo Inhofer, Josh Ryan, Justin Millard, and Mike Ryan, all of Lead, SD, Brandi Ryan of Rapid City, Tammy Jo McGuckin, of Sundance, WY, Donny Millard, of Zebulon, NC; 16 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild; sister-in-law, Betty Ryan; and many nieces and nephews.

Wilma was preceded in death by her husband, David Ryan, her parents, one sister, and one brother.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established to Hospice House of Rapid City.

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