Sammie Ryles

Sam Ryles was born on July 20, 1934 in the city of Columbus GA. He married Molly Riggins on April 29, 1951 in Columbus, Georgia and this union bore four children Geraldine, Sam Jr, Perry and Jerry Ryles. Sam joined the Air Force and the young couple moved to numerous duty stations. Sam was also stationed in London, England for 18 months. At the end of Sam’s military service, the young couple decided to settle in Long Beach, CA in 1956. They bought their first home on 17th street in Long Beach. Sam was formally a member of St. Vestal CME church and later First Providence Baptist church. Sam and Molly raised 4 children instilling good old-fashioned values in them. As a couple, they forged a future for them and their family. With Molly always at Sam’s side, being his right hand and helpmate in all endeavors. Sam was a perfectionist. He also expected everyone "to be the best, you can be”. Molly and Sam had 39 wonderful years together. Molly preceded Sam in death on December 4, 1988 in the arms of her husband, she left this life. Later in life he met his current companion Dorothy Gilmore. They spent over 20 years together. Sam helped Dorothy rear her children and grandchildren. They will always have fond memories of Daddy Speed. Sam showed much love to these children and grandchildren and they toward him. Sam leaves to mourn him, his 2 surviving children Geraldine and Sam Jr 5 grandchildren, 1 great granddaughter, assorted, step children and grandchildren and nieces and nephews, 2 brother- in laws, 2 sisters in- laws and a host of friends. We as a group say to Sam, well done you will be missed.