James J. Ryan

James “Gentleman Jim” Ryan, 80, died at his home, February 4th, 2022, with his loving family by his side. He follows his best friend and wife, Julie Ryan, who passed in 2013.

Jim and Julie grew up and raised a family together in Solvay, NY. The pair retired to Julie’s dream home, a little brick house, in Jordan, NY, to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

Jim was adored by his kids – Wendy Ryan, Patrick Ryan (Dana Pompo), Sue (Lee) Badman, Kitty Ryan (Ken Palmisano), and his daughter-in-law, Tracey Ryan in addition to his grandchildren:  Jim and Matthew (Marilyn) -Wendy; Maggie (Zak) and Jack (Emily) - Patrick/Tracey; Ryan (Echo), Tom (Michelle), and Kate (Adrian) -Sue/Lee, and Nicole (Caleb) and Michael -Kitty, Kenny; and Sofia Madison his grand-daughter by mutual affection.

His is also survived by his siblings -John Thomas (Mary), Patrick (Elaine), and Elizabeth and many loved nieces and nephews. His great nephew, Jack (Thomas Ryan), was a most welcome and frequent visitor.

Jim never hesitated to help anyone in need with a kind word, a helpful hand, or a safe haven at his family home. Many children left his home with a pocket knife, a smile, and something to giggle about.

                “Gentleman Jim” or “Solvay Jim,” as he was known in Local #43 of the IBEW, was a proud Journeyman/Wireman for 30+ years; he specialized in high voltage work including high-voltage testing and splicing, grounding, and motor repair but excelled at all manner of electrical construction work.

There was nothing he could not fix. His carvings and hand-made decoys, like his favorite craftsman, Ken Harris, were outstanding.

Jim was an expert shot with a shotgun, pistol, and rifle. He was a noted outdoorsman, a successful hunter, fisherman and trapper. Aside from being with family he was happiest in the outdoors enjoying nature, pursuing trout and game birds. Some of his happiest memories include sitting in his blind and watching the sun come up over Parker’s Pond.

In lieu of donations and to honor our father, please spend time with those you love and maybe take a minute to appreciate the wonder of nature. 

    There will be a celebration of life at Bush Funeral Home, 120 East Main Street, Elbridge, with calling hours Tuesday, February 08 from 4-7. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 9 am Wednesday, February 9th in St. Patrick’s Church, 28 North Main Street, Jordan, burial will be in Greenlawn Memorial Park Cemetery.

A proper Irish celebration ‘to be announced’ late to honor both of our parents

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James J. Ryan, please visit our floral store.