Joyce M. Ryder

On Tuesday, October 28, 2025, Joyce Marlene Ryder, nee Hovington, beloved mother, sister, cousin, and aunt, passed away at the age of 81. Joyce was known for her devout Christian faith, gentle manner, independent spirit, love of music, sense of humor, and caring smile.

Born on October 13, 1944, in Dover, Delaware, to Mitchell and Margaret “Bernice” Hovington, she graduated from William Henry High School, where she participated in many activities, including the honor society, yearbook staff, cheerleading squad, band, and chorus. In her youth, she attended Mt. Zion AME Church in Dover and as a teen, performed in a trio with her cousin and high school friend (later sister-in-law), singing at local church services and events.

Creative and resourceful, Joyce enjoyed creating clothing for family members and sewing slipcovers and curtains for her home. She loved movies and, when her children were young, looked forward to the Fourth of July, when she and her family could enjoy fireworks and the “Dusk to Dawn” movie marathons at a local drive-in theater. Joyce enjoyed learning, and as an adult, she took piano lessons—Chopin was a favorite; later, at age 42, she proudly graduated from college cum laude with a double major in French and Spanish.

Joyce worked for several years as a seamstress and waitress—and took pride in her work and in earning her tips. During her years in Indianapolis, she was a devoted member of Calvary Temple and The Caring Place churches.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mitchell and Margaret Hovington, and her brother, Mitchell Hovington, Jr. She is survived by her brother, Richard Hovington; her children, Phaedra ( husband-Kenneth); JR (Charles Jr.); and Timothy; their father and former husband, Charles N. Ryder; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A memorial service will be held in early 2026 in Indianapolis, with an option to join online. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Joyce’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association, Attn: Donor Services, 225 N Michigan Ave, Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601

or visit the tribute page to make a donation online at https://bit.ly/JoyceRyderDonation