Clifford Ryder, Jr.

Opelousas - Funeral Services for Clifford James Ryder, Jr. also known as Sonny, will be held from 4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at Sibille Funeral Home with a celebration of life service at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 13, 2015, with an Elk's Service to follow. Pastor Eugene Reiszner will conduct the Funeral Service.

Sonny resided most of his life in Lawtell. He passed away on Sunday, August 9th at his home surrounded by his loving wife and family. In his lifetime he was an entrepreneur in many businesses. He was a third generation contractor and a partner in Ryder Enterprises with his father and brother before starting his own construction company. Opelousas Construction Management was in business for over 30 years until his retirement. He owned and operated Ryder Fan Co., ran a crawfish farm, raised and sold cattle and owned Lawtell Fast Foods. After retirement he enjoyed trading in the stock market and enjoyed his weekly card game night with his poker buddies who often joked about how hard he was to beat. He had a hunger for learning and always had a book in his hand. He had a keen sense of humor and enjoyed joke telling. He was kind hearted and always willing to help. His greatest love was his family. He lit up every time he saw his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids. Sonny and his wife Jane married 50 years often joked of never having an argument. He loved and appreciated the tender loving care she gave him especially during these past several months.

Sonny is survived by his wife, Jane Babineaux Ryder of Lawtell, children, Clifford James Ryder III and his companion, Rebecca Marks, Connie Ryder Wiltz, and her husband, Michael of Opelousas, Cathy Ryder Durham and her husband, David of Opelousas, brother, David Ryder and his wife, Karren of Washington, sisters, Jeannie and Jayne Ryder of Lafayette, grandchildren, Julian, Sarah and Laura Wiltz, Abigail and Kaitlyn Durham, Madison Ryder, and mother Donna Wyble, great grandchildren, Sophia Wiltz, and Eden Gallow.

Preceded in death by his parents, Clifford James, Sr., and Edna Tatman Ryder.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2015 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Words of comfort to the family may be expressed at www.sibillefuneralhomes.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Sibille Funeral Home of Opelousas.

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