Martha Jo (Mock) Ryan

Martha Jo Mock Ryan passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones May 14, 2022. She was the daughter of the late Melvin and Dorothy Mock of Ridgeland, SC where she was born and raised.  She was preceded in death by her loving husband, John “Cookie” Ryan and sister, Joyce D Mock.  She is survived by her children Dana (Jack) Anderson of Seabrook, SC; Deidra (Larry) Chavis of Bluffton, SC; Melanie (Jim) Reynolds of Lady’s Island, SC; Marlowe (Tommy) Ryan of Atlanta, GA; and Dawn Ryan Poteete of Ridgeland, SC; her brother, Mike (Linda) Mock of Hillsville, VA; 9 Grandchildren, 12 Great-Grandchildren, 1 Great-Great-Grandchild, and many adored nieces and nephews.

Martha was a loving, caring, dedicated, daughter, wife, mother, and grandmother. She loved hosting family gatherings and cooking delicious meals for everyone.  Many of these meals and celebrations were extended to non-family guests.  She was always delighted to accommodate all with her big heart.

She was a Christian and member of the Ridgeland Baptist Church.  She beautifully played the piano at home for family and in the earlier years of her life for services in the Euhaw Baptist and Hardeeville Baptist Churches.  Many children and youth were touched by her teaching Girls in Action (GA’s), Sunday School, and Vacation Bible School classes.  She was a true believer in prayer.

Martha was an Executive Secretary for many years at Hargray Communications where she met many dear friends before retiring in 2004.  Anywhere she worked through the years co-workers were not just people she worked with, but people she cared about.  She was a graduate of Ridgeland High School and honored to have been inducted into the National Beta Club and a Tiger’s Cheerleader.  She has spent many years enjoying lifelong relationships made during those school years.

Those who have dined with her will truly miss her specialties Fried Shrimp, Potato Salad, 5-layer Chocolate Cake, Chewy Cake, and Lady Fingers.  What can we say but: When we all get to Heaven…