Edward Leroy Cryer

Edward Leroy Cryer, affectionately known to all that knew him as PAPA, passed away peacefully at the remarkable age of 100 on September 23, 2023, in his home where he had built a lifetime of cherished memories.

Born on April 23, 1923, in Kankakee, Illinois, PAPA was the son of Arthur & Josephine Cryer and brother to Donald and Bernie Cryer. His journey through life was pride for his country, love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to his family.

On December 23, 1944, he married the love of his life, Gloria Mae Cryer and together they embarked on a lifelong journey that spanned 66 years. Their love was a testament to devotion, and they shared countless adventures, joys, and trials together. PAPA and Nonie raised a loving family and were the anchors that held their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren together.

PAPA was a World War 2 Navy Veteran and later went on to work for and retire from AO SMITH excelling in his field and earning the respect of his colleagues. And spent his retirement years doting on his wife, kids, and grandkids. After retiring in 1979, PAPA enjoyed being with his family and keeping Nonie happy. You would often find him working in the yard, sharing a few beers with neighbors and friends that would stop by to check in on him and catch up on current events, the week's top games, politics, and everything in between. You could always count on PAPA to listen, to laugh and to encourage. He was loved and admired not just by his family, but by his family’s closest friends and their kids and so on. He truly was THE MAN, THE MYTH, THE LEGEND for so many.

However, it was within the walls of his home that PAPA truly shone. He was a doting father to his daughters, a loving grandfather to his grandchildren and a proud great-grandfather to 3 great grandchildren.  His face would light up with pride and joy in their presence, and he enjoyed sharing stories, imparting wisdom, and creating lasting memories with each generation.

He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings, the love of his life, Gloria Mae Cryer and Grandson Jason Glen Thrasher. He is survived by his daughters, Linda Kay Thrasher of Waco, Carma Lee Harris and husband Rodney T. Harris of New Braunfels; his grandchildren, Mindi Lee Masten of New Braunfels, Zachary Edward Harris and wife, Mary Douglas of San Antonio; his great-grandchildren, Harrison Lane Masten, Hudson Hayes Masten and Aiden Thomas Harris; and a host of extended family members and friends whose lives were enriched by his presence.

An intimate and private service will be held on Friday October 27 at 2:00 PM for the family.  A celebration of life for PAPA, The Man, The Myth, The Legend will be held on Saturday October 28, 2023, at The American Legion Post 121 in Elm Mott Texas at 3:00 PM. Please reserve all food and cards to be delivered on this day.  Flowers can be received at Waco Memorial Funeral Home for the graveside service or delivered to Post 121 on Friday starting at 2:00 PM, However the family kindly requests in lieu of flowers donations be made to Post 121 American Legion or Veterans One Stop in Edward Leroy Cryer’s honor.

As we say goodbye to PAPA, we are comforted by the knowledge that his love and legacy will forever endure in the hearts of his family. He was not only the cornerstone of our family but also a beacon of love, strength, and wisdom. Rest in peace, dear PAPA, your memory will shine brightly in our hearts forever.