Marilyn E. Ryan
Marilyn Elizabeth Ryan passed away peacefully at home on December 12, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Hartford, Connecticut, she was the daughter of the late Robert W. Ryan and the late Florence (Horan) Ryan.
She graduated from Manchester High School in 1964, received a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Central Connecticut State College, and earned graduate credits in Special Education from Southern Connecticut State College. She lived in Colorado, Hawaii, and Switzerland before settling in Santa Barbara, California, where she taught at Monroe Elementary School for 25 years before retiring in 2010.
Marilyn’s passion extended beyond her professional life. In her youth, she played several sports including high school and intercollegiate volleyball and field hockey. After retirement she was an active member of the American Irish Historical Society, an usher at the Granada Theatre and the Ensemble Theatre Company, and a volunteer tutor at Monroe Elementary School.
She carried that same enthusiasm into her love for hiking and traveling. She traveled extensively throughout Europe and studied the language and culture in various Central American and South American countries. In addition, she was an avid environmentalist. Most importantly, she leaves behind a legacy of kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Marilyn is survived by her sister, Lois Ryan, her niece Kimberly Martin, her brother-in-law, James Martin, and her grandniece Lauren Martin. She also leaves behind many loving friends, especially the thoughtful and generous people who helped her during her illness. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Roberta.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, December 21, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Bridget Church on 80 Main Street in Manchester, Connecticut. Burial will follow at Mount St. Benedict Cemetery in Bloomfield, Connecticut.
In lieu of flowers, donations would be gratefully appreciated in Marilyn’s name to the National Park Foundation https://www.nationalparks.org/. For online condolences, please visit www.tierneyfuneralhome.com.