M. Jean Ryan

Jean passed on peacefully at Community Hospice on Thursday, March 7th at 4:07 pm after an extended illness. She leaves behind her husband of 61 years, Neal R. Ryan, who she loved from the first hour they met until she drew her last breath with him by her side. She is survived by sons, John (Debbie) Ryan of Dover, and Michael (Maggie) Ryan of Florida, a daughter, Linda (Raymond) Lassonde of Concord, NH, one grandson, Chad Ryan, and five granddaughters, Kari (Scott) Brown, Jessica (Jim) Huth, Jennifer Burke, Angela (Chris) Currie, and Kayleigh Lassonde. She leaves six great grandchildren and another great grandson is expected on April 2nd, a daughter-in-law, Delilah Ryan, one brother-in-law Kenneth (Cynthia) Ryan, two sister-in-law Margaret Ryan and Faye Gladman, a special cousin, Janice Goldman, a beloved friend, "Mother" Maxine Thomas, and many nieces and nephews.

Jean is predeceased by a twin sister, Mrs. Robert Gibbs, her parents Anna and Mossa McFarland, and infant twin sisters, Mary and Clara McFarland, and Vivian Garner Little, who was like a daughter to her.

Jean was a member of the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary and served as a County, District, and State Officer. She was the State Commander in fiscal year 1992- 1993. She and Neal assisted countless veterans and their families in getting the benefits they deserve and worked tirelessly to represent veterans in state and national legislature.

She loved cooking for family and friends, enjoyed gardening and sharing the harvest with family, friends, and neighbors. She was famous for her breaded pork chops and strawberry cake, which family would travel cross-country to enjoy. She left an indelible print on the lives of all who knew her and will be greatly missed.

Friends may call Sunday, March 10, from 5-7 p.m. in Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory, Dover. A formal time to share memories has been set for 7:00 p.m., immediately following the visiting hours.
Hospice Chaplain Chad Durfee will officiate a private graveside service at Evergreen Burial Park in New Philadelphia.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made Community Hospice, 716 Commercial Ave SW, New Philadelphia.