James “Jim” D. Ryals

James “Jim” D. Ryals, age 62, passed away on Tuesday, September 7, 2021, at Cloud County Health Center, Concordia. He was born on Oct. 16, 1958, in Salina, Kan., to Tommy P. & Barbara A. (Robbins) Ryals.
He graduated from Concordia High School in 1976. He attended Salina Vo-Tech for drafting. After working for a while, he returned to school and graduated from Cloud County Community College in 1988 and then Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. He worked for KDOT from 1999-2006. Jim was an avid member of the NRA and enjoyed competitive trap shooting.
He is survived by his longtime partner, Teri Smith, Concordia; son, Jay Smith (Staci), McPherson; grandchildren, Ethan & Wyatt Shanks, South Hutchinson; brother, Jerrod Ryals (Stephanie), Clay Center; several nieces, nephews and a host of family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Charles ‘Chuck’ Ryals.
Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 10, 2021, at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, Concordia. Burial will follow at the West Branch Cemetery, Concordia. Visitation will be Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021, from 1-8 p.m. at the funeral home. The family suggests memorials to O’Connor Animal Shelter, Concordia, in care of the funeral home. For online condolences, please visit www.chaputbuoy.com.