Mary Ella “Mella” Ryan, 96, of Wichita Falls, Texas, formerly of Russellville, Kentucky died August 1, 2012, in Wichita Falls, Texas.

She was born May 2, 1916 in Belvedere, Tenn., to Felix C. and Mary Dixie Ray. She was a dedicated Christian and served as secretary for 13 years to Willard Collins, the then Vice-President of David Lipscomb College in Nashville. She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, J.E. “Buddy” Ryan, a son, Edmund Ray, her parents, two sisters and one brother.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, August 25, 2012 at Maple Grove Cemetery in Russellville.

She is survived by her son, Tim E. Ryan of Brasstown, N.C.; daughter, Ruth J. Ryan Kizer (Steve) of Wichita Falls, Texas; grandchildren, Cory Jean Ryan and Katie Lou Kizer (Alex Corle), both of Austin, Texas, Jim Kizer of Wichita Falls and Susan “Jeanette” Jones (Chad) of Edmond, Okla.

Summers, Kirby and Sanders Funeral Home are in charge of local arrangements.