Stella Elaine (Humphress) Rye

Stella Elaine Rye, 93, passed away peacefully at her residence on November 2, 2025.

She was born on March 26, 1932, in Pleasant Plains, Illinois, the daughter of John and Anna Leona (Austin) Humphress.

On February 25, 1950, in Wood River,IL, Elaine married Jackie "Jack" Dale Rye. They shared 73 years together before his passing on April 25, 2024.

Surviving are her daughter, Susan (John) Mendenhall of Edwardsville; her son, Scott Alan (Darlene) Rye of Murfreesboro, TN; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and her daughter-in-law, Kay Rye of Fairview Heights.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack; her son, Steven Dale Rye; her parents; her brother, John Humphress; and six sisters: Marie Schnapp, Frances Wanless, Ruby Ziegler, Shirley Bloodworth, Deloris Ilsley, and her twin, Ella Leona Stiltz.

A celebration of life and interment at Woodland Cemetery will be held at a later date.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

Memorials are suggested to St. Louis Children's Hospital.

The family expresses heartfelt appreciation to the staff at High Point of Wood River. The last several years of Stella's life were among her very best, as she enjoyed the comfort of her own apartment and was truly loved and cared for by the dedicated staff. The friendships she forged and the kindness she received made a significant difference in her life, bringing her joy and contentment.

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