Surrounded by his loving family, on his 90th birthday, May 23, 2013.
Former Mayor and City Councilman of Bellmawr. More recently of Mt. Laurel and Cherry Hill and a long-time resident of Sea Isle City. Loving and devoted husband of 60 years to Gwendolyn V. (nee Egner). Beloved father of Richard, Kathleen Pacifico, James Jr. (Sara), David (Stacey), Jennifer Alleva (David) and Daniel. Cherished \”Poppy\” to 17 grandchildren and the late Jaime DeMaria, and 4 great grandchildren.
Dear brother of Edwin (Ruth), brother-in-law of Mary, wife of the late Jack, his twin, and brother of the late Bernard (Helene), Jerome (Ann) and Frances (Edward). Treasured uncle and devoted friend to many.
Born in Philadelphia on May 23, 1923, Jim was an altar server at Most Precious Blood Parish in Philadelphia, attended Roman Catholic High School and was a graduate of Temple University. He proudly served our country in the U.S. Navy during World War II on the USS Houston. A successful businessman and entrepreneur, Jim founded Red Lion Insulation in 1963 and continued with the company until he was 87 years old. Jim was elected as a City Councilman in Bellmawr in 1963, and after being reelected in 1966, he served as acting Mayor in 1968. He was a very active member of the Rotary Club of Gloucester City and the Builders League of South Jersey and a longtime member of the Brewerytown-Fairmount Sports All-Timers Club.
Outgoing and personable, Jim loved being with people. He was an institution at Bobby Clarke’s Gym in Cherry Hill and an avid sports fan. He adored the shore and traveled the world.
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend his viewing on Tuesday evening from 5 to 8 PM at the HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 9 White Horse Pike, Haddon Heights. On Wednesday morning, a viewing will be held from 8:30 to 9:45 AM at St. Joachim Parish: Annunciation B.V.M. R.C. Church: 601 West Browning Road, Bellmawr. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 AM in the church. Entombment with U.S. Naval Honors will follow in New St. Mary’s Mausoleum, Bellmawr.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are requested to Samaritan Hospice: 5 Eves Drive, Suite 300, Marlton, NJ 08053. In the memo, please write: James J. Ryan, Sr.
Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of James J. Ryan, Sr. Arrangements and Inquiries may be made through: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME. PH: 856-456-1142
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