Jean Frances Carney Ryan

Mrs. William J. Ryan of Palm Coast passed away peacefully surrounded by three of her children on Monday, October 19, 2015. Jean Frances Carney Ryan was born on June 18, 1926 in Fall River, MA the fourth child of Marguerite E. and James M. Carney. As a young student nurse at Rhode Island Hospital, she met and married the love of her life, William J. Ryan (Bill) who preceded her in death after sixty-four years of marriage. Mrs. Ryan was also predeceased by an infant daughter, Kathleen Elizabeth Ryan.
Mrs. Ryan was a graduate of Western Connecticut University, Danbury, CT, receiving a BA in English Literature. She pursued her degree while caring for an aging mother and raising five children, at one point hobbling to class with a boot for a broken ankle. She enthusiastically embraced French class, Humanities, and Astronomy along the way.
Mrs. Ryan was a resident of Danbury, CT for many years where she taught English at Immaculate High School and moderated the Student Council. Upon retirement, she and Mr. Ryan relocated to Palm Coast, FL where she was actively involved in both church and community service organizations such as The Irish Social Club, The New England Club, The Democratic Women's Club and The American Association of University Women.
A vibrant, engaging person, Mrs. Ryan was a great conversationalist and entertainer gathering friends and family frequently around her table. She enjoyed reading, playing the piano, and travelling with her husband, especially to Martha's Vineyard and Rhode Island in the summer.
She is survived by five children: Jean Ryan Tepas (Joseph) of Jacksonville, FL, Mary Virginia Ryan (William Storey)of Westwood,MA, J. Michael Ryan of New Fairfield,CT, Mark B. Ryan of Flagler Beach,FL and Sheila M. DeBold (Kenge)of Murietta, CA. Mrs. Ryan was a loving grandmother to five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, Palm Coast, FL on Saturday, October 24th at ten a.m. The family would like to acknowledge the compassion of the staff of The Windsor of Palm Coast during the last few difficult weeks of Mrs. Ryan's life, and in particular, recognize her companion, Mrs. Joanna Faustino for her loving care and friendship. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Catholic Charities in her name. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.lohmanfuneralhomes.com.