Zapata Obituary

Jodine Elizabeth Ryan, 69, of Alamosa and the Zapata, died Sunday, Nov. 15, at her home from lung cancer.

She was born Feb. 4, 1940, in Decatur County, Iowa, to Dorothy and Joseph Ryan and grew up in Leon, Iowa.

Jodine received her Bachelor of Science from Northwest Missouri State University and her Masters from the University of Oregon. She did her doctoral work at the University of New Mexico.

She taught high school and community college in several Iowa towns.

In 1970, she joined the faculty of Adams State College, where she was an Emeritus Professor of English. She served as the Communications Department Head from 1982-1990, retiring in 1997.

Jodine loved the San Luis Valley, the Zapata and the Oregon coast. She cherished her time at “The Cabin” and on her mountain lots.

She was a dedicated and loving aunt, sister, neighbor, cousin, friend and teacher.

Her parents and her sisters, Sherry Mackey and Gay Ryan Keller, preceded her in death.

Survivors include seven nieces, one nephew, 11 great nieces and nephews, two great-great nephews; brother-in-law, Drexell Mackey; dear friend, Cathy Mullens; half-brother, Dean Wright; and many loving cousins, friends, colleagues and former students.

A memorial service was held Friday, Nov. 20, at Leon Memorial Hall at Adams State College in Alamosa. The Service was attended by many of her friends and neighbors from the Zapata

Memorial contributions may be made to the Ryan McDaniel Scholarship by check to the Adams State Foundation and sent to 208 Edgemont Blvd., Alamosa, CO, 81102. The Zapata Board of Directors voted to make a contribution in Jodine's name to the Ryan McDaniel Scholarship.