Thomas Charles Ryan, Obituary

November 7, 1933 - January 19, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Thomas Charles Ryan aged 91. Tom was born on Nov. 7, 1933 to James and Regina Ryan in the sleepy town of Paris Arkansas. He was their first child, named for each of his grandfathers and was soon followed by two sisters, Mary and Barbara. He enjoyed a happy childhood surrounded by a large extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Paris, AK at the time was primarily populated with hard working coal miners and farmers. While James worked as a coal miner, he supplemented his income with a large vegetable garden and raising chickens and pigs. Tom helped out of course, which led to his lifelong love of gardening and dislike of chicken (which he never ate as an adult). His parents instilled a strong work ethic and deep devotion to the Catholic faith. As the coal mines in Paris closed, James moved his young family to the coal mining town of Carbon County, Utah. Tom grew up playing at the foot of the Wasatch mountains and developed a love of nature. After graduating High School in 1955, he joined the Navy and fought in the Korean War. Tom’s service in the Navy ended in 1961; he made a group of lifelong friends that would later reunite annually to attend March Madness games and enjoy life.

Shortly after returning home from the Navy, he was attending a church function when his priest introduced him to a lovely young woman named Yvonne. They dated while he attended the University of Utah on the GI Bill, becoming the first person in his family to graduate from college. On September 21, 1959, Tom and Yvonne were married and started a family of their own welcoming two boys Kevin and Dennis. Tom was then accepted into a special Master’s program at Boston College and relocated his family to Boston. In 1963, Tom received a Master’s Degree in Special Education and a new baby daughter, Carolyn.

He began a new career as a Mobility Instructor for the Society for the Blind, in Sacramento, CA, in 1965. Along with his new job, they also welcomed the last member of the family, Roselyn. He thrived at work and by1970 became the Executive Director where he and an incredible staff developed world renowned accredited programs for the blind and visually impaired. He was also a lifelong member of the Lions Club whose charitable works benefited the blind center.

Tom and Yvonne were devoted Catholics who were actively involved with the church. They hosted a program called Evenings for Engaged couples for over 20 years, coming away with more friends. Their volunteer work continued after retirement where they worked with a local homeless outreach group for many years.

Throughout his life, whether it was in his career, community or church, Tom made the world a better place while making lasting friends. He married the love of his life and they spent the next 62 years supporting each other and their family while growing ever closer and more in love. The countless lives he touched are a tribute to his kindness and grace and we are forever grateful to have been loved by him. Tom is survived by his children; Roselyn, Carolyn, Dennis and Kevin; his grandchildren Rachel, Stephani, Donald, and Jessica; and four great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife of 62 years Yvonne, his sisters Mary and Barbara and his parents James and Regina.

Funeral Services will be held at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church at 615 Vine Avenue, Roseville, CA 95678 on February 7, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Reception following, details will be at the funeral.