In Loving Memory of Georgine "Joy" Ryan Krause

Georgine "Joy" Ryan Krause, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, faithful servant, and friend, was born on February 17, 1943, in New Braunfels, Texas, to George Ryan and Gertrude Friesenhahn Ryan. She entered into eternal rest peacefully at her home in New Braunfels on July 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family after a life devoted to serving God and others.

Joy lived a remarkable life defined by unconditional love, unwavering faith, and extraordinary generosity. Her home was more than a house—it was a refuge. Over the past 50 years at the same residence, Joy welcomed 37 people into her home, opening not only her doors but also her heart to those in need. Whether they were family members, struggling mothers, children in crisis, or complete strangers, Joy believed everyone deserved to be loved, supported, and given hope.

She lovingly raised her three sons, Brett, Sherman, and Ryan Krause and helped raise her adopted daughter, Anna Allen and her granddaughter Amanda Krause. Family was always at the center of her life, and she poured herself into ensuring those she loved knew they were cherished.

Joy's deep Catholic faith guided every aspect of her life. As a devoted member of St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in New Braunfels, she faithfully served on the Bereavement Committee, Rachel's Project, the Gabriel Project, and the hospitality committee. Through these ministries, she comforted grieving families, ministered to those seeking healing, and became a lifeline for countless mothers and children facing difficult circumstances.

Her work with the Gabriel Project spanned decades and reflected her extraordinary compassion. She provided shelter for homeless mothers and children, purchased diapers, food, beds, cribs, clothing, and car seats; transported families to medical and court appointments; worked alongside Child Protective Services and Teen Connection; helped women find housing, offered emotional and spiritual guidance, and was often simply a comforting voice at the end of a phone call. Time and again, Joy stepped into impossible situations with unwavering love and practical support, changing countless lives through quiet acts of service.

Joy's kindness extended far beyond organized ministry. She never hesitated to help someone in need, often giving without expecting anything in return. Her generosity became a testimony to the love of Christ, and many people found hope because Joy chose compassion over convenience.

Although she spent much of her life caring for others, Joy also embraced life's simple joys. She had a lifelong love for Elvis Presley, enjoyed working in the yard, and treasured opportunities to travel the world. Yet no matter where her adventures took her, her favorite place was always home in New Braunfels, where family gathered, laughter filled the room, and everyone knew there was always a place at her table.
Joy was preceded in death by her parents, George and Gertrude Ryan; her brother Garland Ryan; and her beloved son, Sherman Krause.

She leaves behind a family who will forever treasure her love and example: her sons; Brett Krause and wife Pam; Ryan Krause and wife Bridgett; Daughter-in-law Melissa Krause; Daughter Anna Allen; Grandchildren; Amanda Krause and spouse Shannon, Nicci Messenger and spouse Kurt, Cameron Krause and spouse Keilie, Jordan Krause and spouse Anthony. She also had 11 Great Grand Children; Kaydence, Kinsleigh, Hayden, Mason, Kyleigh, Addyson, Colt, Emmitt, Cameron, Audrey, and Rhys. Special notice to her cousin, friend, and travel companion – Ginger Hanz. Joy leaves behind many extended family members, dear friends, and countless individuals whose lives were forever changed by her kindness.

Joy measured success not by what she accumulated but by the lives she touched. Her legacy is one of faith lived out through action, unconditional love shared freely, and a servant's heart that never grew weary. She leaves behind a family strengthened by her example, a church blessed by her faithful service, and a community forever better because she chose, every day, to love without limits.

Though her earthly journey has ended, Joy's compassion, faith, generosity, and beautiful spirit will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her greatest legacy lives on in the many lives she nurtured, the family she loved so deeply, and the countless people who found hope because Joy opened her heart and simply said, "Come in."

"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23