Peggy Sue Ryan

Peggy Sue Ryan born in Alabama in 1935 and has lived in Alabama for the majority of her life. Her family farmed and logged during her childhood, and she learned a strong work ethic while picking cotton when she was young. She got married after the 11th grade, before finishing high school. She has five sons, nine grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Peggy’s husband Charles was a member of the Air National Guard, and the family moved throughout Alabama and the Southeast. She worked the night shift while raising her family and is the epitome of a strong Southern lady. Peggy is an amazing cook, and has a true knack for storytelling. She and Charles have been married for 59 years, and she is the matriarch of a large, close-knit family. Peggy has, as she would say, “gooboodles” of wisdom from her years as a wife and mother, and is always eager to impart her wisdom on “youngins”.

Interview produced by Kelsey Ryan and Marissa Smith.