James N. Ryan

1925-2017

James N. Ryan "Jimmy" died in the comfort of his home in Santa Barbara, CA on the 22nd of May, 2017. He was born in Washington DC to James and Geneva Ryan. His mother died when he was very young and he was raised by his loving grand mother, Georgie Guy, and his doting aunt, Katie Guy, in Clements, Maryland. He attended the local one-room elementary school and Margaret Brent High School.

Seeing no future on the farm, in 1947 Jim boarded a Greyhound bus to Washington DC, and began working as a file clerk for the Justice Department. In September of 1950 he was drafted into the US Army and fought in the Korean War. He was wounded in combat and received the Purple Heart Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1952.

Jim completed his education at American University and entered the FBI training school at Quantico, Virginia. He was stationed in Dallas, TX, Los Angeles, CA, and Santa Barbara, CA. He retired from the Bureau in 1973 after 30 years of service. After retiring from the FBI he worked for GTE as a security investigator.

In his later years, Jim enjoyed SBCC Adult Education classes where he learned woodcarving, creating several life-sized carousel horses and many other works of art. He enjoyed woodworking with his friends, including masters such as Ted Schiefend and Bob McKay. He also loved socializing with fellow parishioners after mass during "coffee and donuts" at San Roque Church.

Jim is survived by his best friend and wife of 58 years, Angela Ryan; son, Lester Ryan (wife Noel); daughter, Annalee Kennedy (husband Kelly); and grandchildren: Jack Kennedy, Joe Kennedy, and Rayann Ryan. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. Jimmy's lively personality and sense of humor will be greatly missed.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday, June 24th, 2017 at 10:00 am at San Roque Catholic Church.