Christine Ryder, a Mary Washington alumna with a degree in geography, served for nearly a decade in the Office of Admissions
It’s with great sadness that we share the passing of Christine Ryder, a Mary Washington alumna with a degree in geography, who served for nearly a decade in the Office of Admissions, often working behind the scenes to connect students with campus. Known for her selflessness and generous spirit, Christine had a natural ability to make others feel seen and valued. She loved animals and her hobbies, including art, knitting and cooking, and she created a cookbook and kitchen gifts store, Salt and Pepper Books, which for years operated in Occoquan, Virginia and later at the National Harbor in Maryland.
She loved to travel, and her wandering spirit led to many adventures in her life, including living and working in Boston, Massachusetts; Richmond, Virginia and Alexandria, Virginia before making Fredericksburg her permanent home.
Christine shared her life with her devoted husband, Shawn Ryder, who also works at UMW as the set-up assistant at the Jepson Alumni Executive Center. Her passing marks the loss of a beloved wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend whose warmth and generosity touched many lives. Our sympathies go to the family and all who knew her well on campus.
As a reminder, any employee in need of additional support can access the Employee Assistance Program, which is available at no cost with state employee health insurance plans, with more information on the Human Resources website. Employees can also reach out to Human Resources for additional support by contacting Executive Director of Human Resources Beth Williams at bwilli22@umw.edu.
More information about Christine’s life is published in her obituary online. A service was held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Covenant Funeral Service, Fredericksburg. The family received friends prior to the service at the funeral home chapel. Interment followed at Oak Hill Cemetery.