Martha Jean Rylant

Martha Jean Rylant, 82, of Decatur, a loving mother and wife, passed away Thursday, December 21, 2017. The daughter of Gilbert and Elma Lemmond, she was born on June 28, 1935, in Somerville, Alabama. On February 16, 1952, she married Wendell Milford Rylant and would spend 63 wonderful years with him until his death in March, 2015. Their love for each other was always evident and she was truly blessed to find her love so early in life. Survivors include two children, Keith Rylant (Karen) of Florence, and Sandra Meek (Steve) of Decatur; four grandchildren, Daniel Meek (Taylor), Laura Murphy (Clint), Katherine Rylant, and Caroline Rylant; and a great-granddaughter, Hadley Meek. A nephew, Jerry Wayne Lyle, and her life-long friend and special niece, Pat McCreless of Decatur. In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by a son, Marty Rylant, Decatur; two sisters, Polly Burke, Holly Pond, and Aline Worley, Decatur. Jean was an outgoing, social person and loved people. Whether she was playing the piano during sing-a-longs at Priceville High School or Westminster Memory Care, hosting card games at her home for her church friends, presiding as President of the Decatur Women's Club in 1970's, she was right at home. Her happiest moments, however, were spending time with her family. Her children and grandchildren were involved in many activities and she and Wendell always supported them by attending every event they could. Sports always played a big part in the family and, no matter the weather or location, they rarely missed a game. Routinely they were the first ones there and always ready to show support with a smile and a hug. For 39 years, she was the Austinville Church of Christ secretary until her retirement in 2013. After her retirement, she enjoyed traveling with her husband and visiting her children and grandchildren. Gratitude is sincerely expressed to the staff of Westminster Memory Care for the professional and loving care our mother received over the past year. Her service will be Sunday, December 24, 2017, 2:00 p.m. at Austinville Church of Christ with one hour of visitation prior. Following the service, she will be buried next to her husband at East Lawrence Memorial Gardens. Shelton Funeral Home will provide the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Austinville Church of Christ Mission Work, or Hospice of the Valley.

Martha Jean Rylant

June 28, 1935 - December 21, 2017