Clara Mae Ryder

Clara Mae Ryder, age 97, passed away peacefully Wednesday, January 12th, 2022, after suffering a stroke.  She was born in Schenectady, NY July 11th, 1924, to Everett and Eleanor (Warner) Crouse, who preceded her in death. She was also predeceased by her husband Merrill, son Merrill, infant son Marshall, granddaughter Marybeth, and brothers Eugene and Everett.  She leaves behind a deep loss in the lives of her daughters, Marion Estes, and Marilyn (Jim) Maffucci, sons Martin (Maribeth) and Matthew (Kathleen).  She also leaves behind her wonderful, caring sister Alice Gordon, 9 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She graduated from Eastport High School and then summa cum laude from Albany State Teachers College (now SUNY Albany).  She married Merrill Ryder while in college and then moved to Westhampton Beach and later Quogue on Long Island with her husband.  She first taught in Center Moriches, where she was “let go” for being pregnant, then taught in East Moriches and Eastport.  She later worked for her husband's business until she moved in with her sister, who cared for her until her stroke. 

Clara Mae was loved by all who knew her.  She was the Warner Family Reunion Secretary for many years and managed to keep up with all the many relatives.  She had a deep faith in her Lord and taught Bible Study for many years. She loved music and played the piano and organ, continuing to play the organ into her 90's.  She loved to send cards to everyone for any occasion and so many looked forward to them, missing them when she no longer could.

Visitation is Friday, January 21st at Werner-Rothwell Funeral Home in Westhampton Beach from 2-4 and 7-9pm.  Service will be Saturday, the 22nd, at 10 am with burial at Oakwood Cemetery in East Quogue.

Donations can be made in her name to Eastport Bible Church building fund or the Quogue Wildlife Refuge.

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