James Ollis Ryals III

Funeral services for James Ollis Ryals III will be held Tuesday, February 11, 2025, 2:00 p.m., at College Park Methodist Church with Bro. Kenneth Owen officiating. Visitation will be held an hour prior to service at the church. Webb & Stephens Funeral Homes are honored to be entrusted with arrangements.

Mr. Ryals, 74, of Meridian, passed away Friday, February 7, 2025, at Anderson Regional Medical Center in Meridian.

James obtained his degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Southern Mississippi. He then went on to work for the ABC (Alcohol Beverage Control) for several years, a job which he loved. He later retired from Empire Trucking after many years as a parts salesman for semi-trucks. He was an active member of College Park Methodist Church, where he attended for many years. Some of his favorite pass times included visiting the Mississippi Gulf Coast, fishing, and spending time with his grandchildren, which he adored. He will be remembered most for being a devoted husband, and loving father, grandfather, and father-in-law, as well as favorite uncle to his nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his sons, Daniel Ryals (Beverly) and James Ryals IV (Beth); grandchildren, Lauryn Ryals, Mandi Ryals, Madelyn Ryals, Aiden Ryals, James Ryals V, Warren Ryals, and Pharren Abigail Ryals; sister, Linda Scarbrough (Bruce); and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 43 years, Martha Gail Ryals; parents, James Ollis Ryals II and Anna Leigh Stewart Ryals; and brothers, Russell, Erroll, and Kerry Ryals.

Pallbearers will include his beloved nephews.