Mrs. Essie Meretta Ryder, of Coles Island, NB passed away at Saint John Regional Hospital on December 13, 2000. Born in Coles Island N.B. on January 6, 1925, she was the daughter of the late H. Murray and Laura (Phillips) Kierstead. She was the beloved wife of the late Milton O. Ryder who passed away in 1978. Essie is survived by her son LeRoy of Quispamsis, her sister Florence Chown and her husband Myles of Sussex, 2 brothers Cleveland Kierstead and his wife Hazel of Cherryvale, Vernon Kierstead and his wife Joan of Fredericton, 3 Grandchildren, Terri, Kerri-Anne, and Craig all of Quispamsis, as well as several nieces and nephews. Essie was predeceased by a sister Velma Black and by a brother Roy. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of WALLACE FUNERAL HOME 34 Sunnyside Drive, Sussex, (506-433-1176), the family will be receiving relatives and friends on Friday 2-4,7-9 at Wallace Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be held from Coles Island Baptist Church on Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 2:00 pm, with Rev. Dan Brown Officiating. Interment at Coles Island Cemetery. Donations made to the NB Heart Fund or the memorial of the donors choice would be appreciated by the family.