Paula Ivey Ryan, 65, of Athens died at home Tuesday. At The University of Texas, the young, quiet beauty from a small Texas town caught the eye of the handsome big city boy from Houston, and they remained devoted to one another for 43 cherished years. As a wife, she was devoted to her husband and best friend, loving, supportive, encouraging through thick and thin. A mother of four children, she set an example of strength, grace, and humility, while always providing a soft place to land. To friends, she was loyal, thoughtful, and dependable. Affectionately called "Mermil" by her nine grandchildren, she experienced great enjoyment and pride as she spent special moments with each cheering at athletic events, hosting spend the nights, and the thrill of a movie and dinner for quality time. She was a woman of tremendous faith, setting an example of Christ like love and making sure that each and every child knew the blessed meaning and importance of a having a personal relationship with Christ. Paula was a talented artist and decorator, as evidenced by loving murals and paintings proudly displayed in her children's homes. She also loved filling scrapbooks full of memories from cherished family events, fun casual outings, and wonderful trips shared with family and friends. Paula was preceded in death by her parents, Willine Heard and James Paul Ivey of Elgin, Texas. She is survived by her loving husband, Dan W Ryan Jr. of Athens; three daughters and their husbands, Debbi and Joey Strachan of Madison, Rainey and Jamie Weaver of Middletown, and Darby and Chad Rose of Athens; one son and his wife, Dan and Carla Ryan of Athens; a sister, Dorinda Ivey of Los Angelos and her husband, Ward Booth; as well as her pride and joy, nine grandchildren, Alex, Abbey, William, Parker, Andy, Cole, Chase, Ryan, and Ryleigh. Also left to cherish her memory are a host of family and friends. The family would like to express its heartfelt gratitude to Southern Care Hospice group for their support, comfort, and loving care of Paula.