March 20, 1935 – December 25, 2025

Gainesville, Florida

Ms. Rye was born in Traskwood, Arkansas in 1935 to Frank and Hazel Hilliard. She graduated from Arkansas Tech University in 1957. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Hazel Hilliard, brothers, Frank, Edward, and Allan Hilliard. She is survived by her sister, Carolyn Estelle, children, Charles (Karen) Rye, Frank (Sheri) Rye, Carol (Frank) Lindsey, David (Julie) Rye and Beth (John) Balzraine, 11 grandchildren Charles Rye, Erin Rye (Robert Frings), Paul (Aubrey) Rye, Ashleigh (Skylar) Sillivent, David Lindsey, Brendon Lindsey, Rachel (Vince) Vazquez, Lauren (Jay) Slappey, Sara Rye, Elise (Brett) Renfroe, and Brett (Emily) Balzraine and 9 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

She devoted her career to serving her special education students as a dedicated teacher. An avid gardener and bird watcher, she found great joy in nature and lovingly shared that passion with her grandchildren. She was deeply devoted to the United Methodist Church, always finding a church home with each move throughout her life, and faithfully served in many roles, with her final church home being Schweitzer Church of Springfield, MO.

A service celebrating her life will be held in Russellville, AR on February 14, 2026.