It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Peter Henry Ryner Sr., affectionately known as “Peter Bucket,” who departed this life on Oct. 6, 2025, at the age of 81.
Peter was lovingly nicknamed after his great-grandfather, Peter ‘Bucket’ Ryner. He was born on the island of Montserrat on Feb. 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:
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, Karime Fahie, Demetri Doyley, Andre Pool and Cesia Sargeant
Great-grandchildren: Joshua Dease and Islann Babrow
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.
Viewing will be held at Turnbull Funeral Home on Friday, Oct. 31 from 4 p.m.-6 p.m..
Funeral Service will be held at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, located at 31-33 First Avenue Estate Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.
Viewing: 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Service: Begins at 10 a.m.
Internment: Will follow at Western Cemetery
The repast will take place on Sunday, Nov. 2, at Magen’s Bay at 12 noon.
Professional services are entrusted to Turnbull’s Funeral Home.
St. Croix Source
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