10/25/2002
Sylvia Mae (Rankin) Fry was born February 15, 1899 in Marion County to Ernest and Clara
(Maddy) Rankin.
Sylvia valued education graduating from Knoxville High School in 1917, Iowa Bible
Training School in 1924, and Drake University in 1933. She worked as a Methodist
Church Deaconess for 26 years until 1952.
On Jan. 6, 1952, she married William M. Fry and became part of a “ready-made family.”
Sylvia taught 3rd grade prior to becoming more involved with the care of her grandchildren.
She assisted William with his duties as a minister in rural Iowa for many years.
In 1972, Sylvia and William moved to Wesley Homes in Des Moines, Wash. to be closer
to their family. William died on Oct. 29, 1990. Sylvia enjoyed a good quality of
life and a cheerful spirit until her death on Oct. 25, 2002.
She is survived by one daughter, Laurel (Charles A.) Power, nine grandchildren,
23 great-grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorial services will be scheduled later. Private internment at Forest Lawn Cemetery,
West Seattle.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be given to the Circle of Concern/Wesley
Gardens, 815 South 216th Street, Des Moines, WA 98198.