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Peter Henry
Ryner Sr.
Feb 16, 1944 — Oct 6, 2025
In profound sorrow we the Management & Staff of Turnbull's Funeral Home & Crematory Services announce the passing of Peter Henry Ryner,81 Sr., affectionately known as "Peter Bucket," of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands who departed this life on Monday, October 6, 2025.
Peter was lovingly nicknamed after his great-grandfather, Peter 'Bucket' Ryner. He was born on the island of Montserrat on February 16, 1944, to Isabella Aymer—fondly known as 'Ms. Kitty'—and Joseph Edwards, both of whom predeceased him.
Peter spent his early years in Montserrat, where he attended Cork Hill Primary School. He is remembered as a happy, jovial, and well-rounded individual who got along well with his peers. His classmate, Rev. Dr. Reuel Francis, fondly recalls Peter's love for cricket and his enthusiastic participation in the game. That love never faded—Peter remained a devoted cricket fan throughout his life, following every match played across the globe.
As a young man, Peter served with the Royal Montserrat Defence Force (RMDF) before migrating to St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, around 1965. There, he lived with his aunt and uncle, Albertha Oliver-Francis and Campbell Francis, and their family for many years.
His first job in the U.S. Virgin Islands was at Pueblo Supermarket, where he worked for over 25 years. During his time there, he learned to speak Spanish fluently to better communicate with his co-workers—a testament to his dedication and kindness.
Following his years at Pueblo, Peter worked for the Department of Public Works and later the Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority. He retired on October 23, 2023, after 30 years of dedicated service to the people and government of the Virgin Islands.
Peter was a beloved member of the community. He will be remembered for his warmth, resilience, and the positive impact he had on everyone who knew him. Parents: Isabella Aymer and Joseph Edwards (deceased)
Peter is survived by his Life Partner, Rita C. Smith; Sons: Peter Henry Ryner, Jr and Clyde Joseph Ryner; Adopted sons: Cedric Smith, Greg Smith and Steve Smith; Daughters, Sonia Hart and Tracia Selwood; Adopted daughters: Debra Smith Williams and Dorina Smith Warden; Brother, John E. Aymer Sr.; Sister-in-law, Maria V. Rivera-Alomar; Nephew, John E. Aymer Jr; Nieces: Maria Aymer and Rochelle Aymer; Great nephews, Mason Aymer and Ellis Aymer; Great niece, Brianna Dickerson; Grandchildren: JahNaiyah Ryner, K'Mayah Merissa Davis, ReChyha Ryner, ReChyii Ryner, ReKhyai Ryner, RoChe Berry, ReYha Francis, ReChea Pemberton, Karime Fahie, Demetri Doyley, Andre Pool and Cesia Sargeant; Great-grandchildren: Joshua Dease and Islann Babrow; Daughter-in-law, RoChele Ryner; Ex-wife, Ella Ryner; Cousins: Joycelyn Mason, Ruth Lee, Claudette Weekes, Lowell Mason, Curby Francis, Zenobia Francis, Alvion Francis, Campbell Francis, Jr.; His Public Works family, Waste Management family, many other friends and associates too numerous to mention.
Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that Peter's spirit will live on in the stories we share and the love he gave so freely.
Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that Peter's spirit will live on in the stories we share and the love he gave so freely.
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Turnbull's Funeral Home
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