Sarah Evelyn Ryan

From her first breath to her last, Sally, was the brilliant light in the room that pulled others to her. We are heartbroken she has left us, but feel so blessed to have known and loved such an amazing spouse, mother, sister, friend, and believer. May she now be at peace in the arms of Jesus Christ.

Sally was born to Thomas and Evelyn Mabery in Chattanooga TN. She graduated from Chattanooga City High School and earned a BA in Education from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. One summer, while in Ocean City, New Jersey, she met a long-haired, California surfer, named Michael. Even though they lived on opposite sides of the country, they stayed in touch by writing letters weekly. The distance did not keep them apart and they were married in 1971. The newlyweds initially settled in Nashville, TN where Sally taught special education and Michael attended medical school. Michael then began his medical practice and the couple welcomed three children Rebecca, Sarah, and Thomas. After many years in the South they decided it was time to go west and they moved to Spokane, WA. After many years in Spokane and now empty nesters, Michael and Sally moved to the sunshine of Arizona.

Sally enjoyed playing piano and violin. To conquer a fear of flying, she earned her pilot’s license. She was an early riser and spent those early hours praying, studying the bible, and journaling. While raising her children and managing her husband’s medical practice she obtained her Masters in Counseling from Whitworth University. She utilized her counseling skills as a mental health therapist and enriched many as pastor and elder at Whitworth Presbyterian Church. She led numerous bible studies and served as Regional Director of Moms-In-Touch.

Sally was a dedicated and loving spouse to Michael for 46 years. The two loved going to coffee shops, traveling, and listening or playing music. One of their favorite spots was the Oregon Coast. Sally was a devoted mother and worked hard to raise children of strong character, integrity, and faith. Sally was a loyal friend to many and accepted all.

She is survived by her husband Michael B. Ryan, MD, brother, Robert “Bob” Mabery (Mamie) of Atlanta, GA, 3 children, Rebecca Milholland, MD, PhD (Lenard) of Somerset, Kentucky, Sarah Ryan (Matthew) of Eugene, OR, and Thomas “Tom”(Star) of Spokane, WA, and 5 grandchildren, Aaron, Hudson, Eli, Hope, and Cecilia.

Glory to God for the Life of Sally!

A celebration of life will be held in Lincoln City, OR on June 9, 2018.

Special Message:

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Sally’s memory be made to The Brain Support Network (https://www.brainsupportnetwork.com) or to Calvary Oro Valley http://www.calvaryov.org/.