Joan Ryan

Joan Ryan, a cherished mother, grandmother, and dedicated healthcare professional, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, at the age of 94. Born on January 15, 1931, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Joan led a life filled with love, compassion, and a strong sense of duty to her family and community.

Joan's career as a nurse spanned many years, during which she worked at Good Samaritan Hospital and Riverview Nursing Home. Her commitment to caring for others was evident not only in her professional life but also in her role as a loving and supportive mother. She graduated from Regina High School and furthered her education at Good Samaritan College of Nursing, where she honed the skills that would define her lifelong vocation in healthcare.

Among her proudest accomplishments was raising her ten children, nurturing each of them with unwavering love and support. Joan was the mother of Linda (Mike) Montgomery, Colleen Ryan, Nancy (Iqbal) Vohra, Tim (Julie) Ryan, Michael (Norma) Ryan, James (Cindy) Ryan, Kathleen (Mike) Griffith, Stephen (Carol) Ryan, and Laura (the late Adam) Niangane. She took immense joy in being the grandmother to 32 grandchildren and the great-grandmother to 38 great-grandchildren, delighting in the laughter and love they brought into her life.

Family gatherings were a source of joy for Joan, who looked forward to "Game Time" with her loved ones, cherishing moments spent together. She also enjoyed attending lunches with her fellow nurses, where stories and memories filled the air, keeping her connected to friendships that meant so much to her.

Joan leaves behind her beloved sister Annette (the late Ron) Bechman and sister Karen (Robert) Martin, as well as many nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly. In addition to her vibrant family life, Joan was known for her love of puzzles, playing cards, and crafts, all of which provided her with moments of joy and creativity.

She was preceded in death by her husband Donald A. Ryan, with whom she shared 51 years of marriage, and her son Joseph Ryan. She was the daughter of Irwin and Helen Terrill, whose legacy she honored throughout her life.

Visitation will be Tuesday, January 13th at the Vitt, Stermer & Anderson Funeral Home 4619 Delhi Rd. from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. followed by a funeral mass 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Victory Church.

Joan's memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, who are grateful for the warmth, kindness, and wisdom she brought into their lives. As they remember her today and always, they celebrate the extraordinary life she lived and the profound impact she had on those fortunate enough to know her.

Memorials may be made to the Good Samaritan School of Nursing.