James Patton "Jp" Ryals Jr.

James Patton "JP" Ryals, Jr., 90, of Clifton Hill, Missouri, passed away peacefully at Moberly Regional Medical Center in the early morning hours of Monday, June 2, 2025.
Born on September 30, 1934, in Huntsville, Missouri, JP was the son of James Patton Ryals, Sr., and Elba I. (Agee) Ryals. He graduated from Huntsville High School in the Class of 1953 and went on to dedicate his life to farming, raising cattle, and co-owning Ryals Packing House. JP loved life on the land and took great pride in working on his farm, especially when he was riding around on his beloved "buggy."
On May 26, 1956, he married Velma Ruth Fox in Cleeton, Missouri. Their union was one of deep devotion, family, and shared dreams. Together they raised four daughters and built a life centered around love, faith, and hard work.
JP was known for his down-to-earth wisdom, strong work ethic, and the joy he found in spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His stories, steady presence, and warm smile will be deeply missed.
He is survived by his four daughters: Tempy Holman of Huntsville, MO; Tammy Hill of Clifton Hill, MO; Lisa Rice and husband Rayle of Huntsville, MO; and Linda Haffecke of Huntsville, MO; seven grandchildren: Brad (Alexis) Holman, Annavee (Eric) Brown, Trevor Hill, Zach (Tana) Hill, D.J. Haffecke, Abby (Chris) Meyer, and Tyler (Lisa) May; five step-grandchildren: Brett (Kim) White, Brad (Danelle) Rice, Victoria (Zach) Wyatt, Kayla Rice, and Kayle Rice; 20 great-grandchildren: Hayden, Zander, Landry, and Emrey Holman, Trace, Kambria, and Quade Brown, Trey, Lanie, and Kyler Hill, Gage, Rydan, and Aizleigh Hill, Aniston, Everly, Caroline, and Fletcher James May, Huntley, Elby, and Ripp Meyer; and seven step great-grandchildren: Tate and Cora Wyatt, Tyler, Kyleigh, Kalynn, Knox, and Trenton White, and Rosella and Lottie Rice.
He also leaves behind his sister-in-law, Carman Hughes; several nieces and nephews; and many other extended family members.
JP was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Velma Ruth; sons-in-law, Steve Holman and Mike Hill; and three brothers: Wallace, Willard, and Marion Ryals.
A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday, June 6, 2025, at Patton Funeral Home in Huntsville, Missouri. A graveside service will follow at 12:15 p.m. at Huntsville City Cemetery, with Pastor Debbie Schmidt officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association.