John L. Ryan, 84, of Mineola, New York, peacefully passed from this life on January 14, 2023. He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Frances (McIntosh) Ryan, his children, grandchildren, and his extended family. John was the loving father of Marianne, Patricia, Paula Higgins (Richard), and John. He treasured being the doting “Pop” (a.k.a. “Big Pop”) of Christopher, Clémentine, Nicholas, and Matthew.
John was born on August 23, 1938, to Michael Lawrence (Larry) Ryan and Anna (Fleming) Ryan. He was raised in Brooklyn and was the oldest of seven children. He is survived by his siblings Michael, Kevin, Mary, and Fr. Larry Ryan. He was predeceased by his brother, Patrick, Ryan and sister, Eileen Ryan Hennessey. John cared deeply for his many nieces and nephews in the Ryan and McIntosh families and was always interested in and supportive of their personal and professional endeavors.
John’s inquisitive mind and keen intellect were honed by his Jesuit education at Regis High School (‘56), Fordham University (‘60), and Fordham University School of Law (‘63). He served in the United States Army from 1963 to 1965 and received the Army Commendation Medal for his service as a First Lieutenant in the 4th Training Brigade, Armor, Fort Knox, and achieved the rank of Captain as a Reserved Commissioned Officer. After his military service, he practiced general law in New York City before becoming Associate General Counsel at New York Life Insurance Company.
John lived his deep Catholic faith through love and service to others. He was an active member of Corpus Christi parish in Mineola for over 50 years and served as a Trustee, Eucharistic Minister, and a mentor in Pre-Cana education classes.
Friends and family will remember his kind and generous nature, willingness to help others, enjoyment of conversation, and his hearty laugh.
Visitation will be held Thursday, January 19, 2-5PM and 7-9PM at Cassidy Funeral Home, 156 Willis Avenue, Mineola, NY. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, January 20 at 10:30AM at Corpus Christi Church, 155 Garfield Avenue, Mineola. Burial to follow at the Cemetery of the Holy Rood in Westbury, NY.
