Larry E. Ryan

Larry E. Ryan

February 16, 1938 - February 4, 2026

Larry E. Ryan, formerly of Union WA and most recently of Tiverton, RI, passed away on February 4, 2026, just days before his 88th birthday. Born in Deadwood, South Dakota, on February 16, 1938, Larry grew up with a strong sense of adventure, discipline, and curiosity-traits that shaped a life defined by service, leadership, and a deep love of the outdoors.

A proud graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Class of 1960, Larry devoted 31 years to the United States

Navy-a commitment that shaped not only his career, but his values, his friendships, and the way he saw the world.

He spent 14 years at sea aboard submarines and destroyers, experiences that demanded resilience, trust and leadership under pressure. Those years forged a man who believed deeply in responsibility, teamwork, and leading by example.

Along the way it also formed lifelong friendships and stories he carried with him always. Commanding the destroyer USS Higbee was among the proudest achievements of his career-not for the title, but for the privilege of caring for the sailors entrusted to him.

Larry's service extended well beyond the deck plates. He held several important shore assignments, including Director at the Surface Warfare Officer School and Branch Chief for Logistics Plans and Readiness at Headquarters, U.S.

European Command. He earned a Master's Degree in Management from George Washington University and retired from active duty in 1987. His many medals and commendations reflected not only his professionalism, but the respect he earned from those who served alongside him.

After retirement, he did not step away from service. His love for the Naval Academy endured, and he proudly continued to represent USNA as a Navy Blue and Gold officer, mentoring, coaching, and encouraging young people considering a life of service. Helping others find their path brought him genuine fulfillment.

Above all, Larry was a man who loved being outdoors and on the move. He found joy in skiing at Whistler, hiking mountain trails, sailing open waters, golfing, and running which included several entries in the Hood To Coast Relay. Some of his proudest moments were sharing these passions with his friends and family. Skiing with his grandchildren, running the Hood To Coast with his team of friends and family, and hiking with his son and daughter-in-law in HI. There were also plenty of stories to be shared, over a good meal, especially at his favorites, the Alderbrook Resort in Washington and the Dublin Gate in Whistler with his Old GOAT friends. He was happiest when challenged, active, and surrounded by nature.

Larry was preceded in life by his parents, Bill and Alice Ryan. He leaves behind his daughter, Paige Goulart and her husband Mark of Portsmouth, RI; his son, Michael Ryan and his wife Maggie of Oahu, HI, his former wife of 25 years and lifelong companion Elizabeth D. Ryan of Portsmouth, RI, a sister Peggy Obenhaus of Boulder, CO, a brother Patrick Ryan and wife LuAnn of Folly Beach, SC and his cherished grandchildren, Gregg Ryan of Oahu, HI, Ryan Goulart of Denver, CO, and Meagan Goulart of NYC, NY. In the final years of his life, Larry shared a close and meaningful friendship with Tom Ellis, whose companionship brought great comfort and joy during that time.

Larry E. Ryan will be remembered not only for his distinguished naval service, but for his steady leadership, love of adventure, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the sailors he led, and the values he passed forward.

The family would like to thank Brookdale Sakonnet Bay and their staff, Hospice, Visiting Nurse and Home Hospice, and Danny A. for their tremendous care and support. A Service/Celebration of Life will be arranged at a later date.

Burial will be at the Naval Academy to be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations, in Larry Ryan's name, may be made to Visiting Nurse and Home Hospice, Middletown, RI or The Tunnel to Towers Foundation (t2t.org).