Francis James Ryan

                It is with a deep sense of loss we regret to announce the passing of Francis James Ryan, beloved husband, father, brother, son, grandson, uncle, nephew and friend on June 13th, 2024 at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital in Sydney, Nova Scotia.

                Born in Baddeck on September 1st, 1949, the first born child of Donald Alphonse Ryan and Dolanna (Dollie) Ryan (MacLeod).  Francis was predeceased by both parents, his father-in-law and mother-in-law Angus John (A.J.) and Jessie Morrison, and his brothers-in-law Donald Morrison, North River Bridge, and Colin MacDonald, Baddeck. 

                He will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 50 years Elizabeth (Libby) Ryan (Morrison), his sons Dan, Los Angeles, and Seamus, North River Bridge, as well as his special cousin Sister Anne Malcolm, Rogersville New Brunswick, siblings Donnie (Miriam), Keith (Mary), Robert (Florence), John Michael, Eileen, Walter (Georgina) of Baddeck, Florence (Craig), Stellarton, and special family friend Carmen DeGruchy, Whycocomagh, sisters-in-law Norma Barradell (Robert), Calgary, Mildred Morrison, Halifax, Pamela Morrison, North Sydney, and an extended family including many special nieces, nephews and cousins.  

                Francis was a teacher and school administrator for 34 years working in Lincolnville, Hazel Hill, Little Dover, and Baddeck from where he retired in 2005. He was an altar boy at the age of six and for two years he taught Sunday school while still in high school himself. He graduated from Baddeck Academy and completed his Bachelor of Arts (1971) and Bachelor of Education (1972) at St. Francis Xavier University, and his Administration Block at Dalhousie University.

Francis married Elizabeth Carol Ann Morrison on August 24, 1973 and he spent most of his married life in their beloved home overlooking the North River. He thoroughly enjoyed reading, including many different types of literature, working in his garden, and enjoying a wide range of music especially with family and friends. Francis was a great storyteller with a quick wit and loved to laugh in the company of friends or just with his wife. He was a gifted writer and could find the most meaningful words during difficult times.  Faith was an important part of Francis’ life and he loved to help others when he saw a need or opportunity.  He loved his family beyond measure. 

Visitation will be at St. Ann’s Bay United Church in Indian Brook (46715 Cabot Trail) on Wednesday, June 19th from 4-7 pm. Funeral service will be held at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Baddeck at 2:00pm on Thursday, June 20th with a reception to follow immediately after the service at the Inverary Inn MacAulay Conference Center from 3-5 pm. Burial at Riverside Cemetery at a later date. Many thanks to the staff at the Cape Breton Regional Cancer Centre and a special thank you to Dr. Roland Genge. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Doctors Without Borders, the SPCA, or a charity of your choice.

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