Alfrella Evelyn Ryals

The life and legacy of Alfrella Evelyn Ryals began on August 23, 1971, in Miami, Florida, as a beautiful baby girl to Ernell Zelner and Alfred Ryals Sr. Alfrella's journey took her from Jacksonville, Florida, to Detroit, Michigan, where she thrived as a student at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, graduating in 1990. She continued her education at Henry Ford Community College, earning an AA degree in Education. Alfrella dedicated her life to teaching as an educator at The Pentecostal Church of God Christian Academy in Detroit, Michigan.

Her unwavering commitment to education and her faith was a hallmark of Alfrella’s life. She inspired countless students with her passion for learning and nurturing spirit, always encouraging those around her to pursue their dreams and trust in the word of God. Her profound impact resonated with everyone she met, both in the classroom and beyond.

A devout believer, Alfrella loved the Lord with all her heart, soul, and mind, finding peace in the knowledge of her eternal home with Him. She often expressed her readiness to meet God when the time came. On Wednesday, September 19, 2025, God welcomed her home, saying, “It’s time; you have fought the good fight and your work is complete. Well done, my good and faithful servant.” Alfrella was a devoted member of The Pentecostal Church of God, where she was baptized under the late Bishop C.L. Rawls and flourished under the guidance of Bishop Charles Wilson, Sr., and Pastor Evangelist Kerry Collins. Her service included a joyful role as the Youth Choir Director, always making herself available wherever her ministry was needed.

Alfrella was a remarkably talented woman who found joy in singing, writing music, cooking, dancing, and traveling. Family was her heart’s priority, and she dreamed of opening her own restaurant, “Alice Rene Catering.” Most recently, she proudly created delicious meals, offering healthy choice salads and boiled peanuts.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Ernell Elaine Allen; father, Alfred Ryals, Sr.; stepfather, Deacon Frank Allen; and daughter, Jasmine Johnson. Alfrella leaves behind her loving son, Justin Emon Peterson; siblings, Alfred Ryals Jr. (Tara), Quinton Burden, and Betty Davis; cherished aunts and uncles; and friends who adored her, including Brianna Pittman and Shalanda Hall-Padget. Her special cousins, including Angel, Cherie, Eugenia, Lawanda, Carlos, Andre, Andrene, Josh, Leroy, Lisa, Marcus, Christopher, Brenda, Ervin Jr., Tisma, and especially her beloved “Goo Goo Girl,” Zaisha Davis, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends, including Inger, Nita, Shalanda, Vincent, Todd, Greg, Sheila, Nikki, and Shannon, will also carry her memory forward.

Alfrella's spirit will continue to inspire and uplift all those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her love, faith, and vibrant energy will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.