Norman Thomas Ryan

Norman Thomas Ryan, 93, of Lexington, Kentucky, passed away on November 19, 2025. He was born on November 3, 1932, in Corning, New York, and spent most of his life in Lexington building a family he loved deeply. Norman was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred "Millie" Ryan, and his son, Justin Ryan. Millie was the love of his life, and he talked often about being ready to see her again. He is survived by his daughter, Ann Ryan; his grandchildren Steven Ryan (Samantha), Rachel Kreke (Aaron), Patrick Ryan (Alyssa), and Roselynn Williams (Michael); and his great-grandchildren Madisyn, Andrew, Conner, Maya, Blakely, Dottie, and Caroline. His family was truly the center of his world. He answered to several names - Papa, Old Man, and Toothless - each one tied to someone who loved him. Norman graduated from Alfred University, worked for many years as a ceramic engineer at GE, and served in the military. He stayed sharp and full of personality until the very end. He showed love in his own way: teasing, sticking his tongue out, making quick comments, and keeping everyone laughing. He was also incredibly generous. If someone he cared about needed something, even his last dollar, he would give it without hesitation. And he loved easily. If you were in his circle, he made sure you felt it. Norman was also known for being truthful and straightforward. If he didn't like something or someone you'd know it immediately. He never pretended to be anything other than exactly who he was, and that honesty is part of what made him so memorable. In his later years, he joked often about wanting to throw the TV out the window because "there was nothing worth watching," but he never lost his attachment to his old La-Z-Boy recliner, which he practically lived in. In his final days, he was surrounded by family and by three ladies who became incredibly important to him - Whitney, Jeanette, and Amy. The family is deeply grateful for the love, time, and care they gave him. A graveside service will be held Monday, November 24, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Evergreen Memorial Gardens. The family does not expect flowers, but if anyone chooses to send them, they may be delivered to Kerr Brothers Funeral Home on Main Street. Norman will be remembered for his humor, his generosity, his honesty, and the way he made life lighter for the people around him. His family will forever carry the stories, the jokes, and the steady love he gave them.