Mr. James Paul Ryan Jr.

March 27, 1948 - February 28, 2018

James Paul Ryan Jr. died peacefully in his home on Wednesday February 28th, 2018. Jimmy is survived by his two loving children, James Patrick Ryan, and his daughter-in-law Jessica who he adored, and Jamie Ryan, as well as three perfect grandchildren, Alyssa, Jenna and Landon who were truly the light of his life. Jimmy lit up with joy every time he spent time with his grandchildren, and as he got older his life became about them. Jimmy is also survived by his two younger sisters, Anndevoy Ryan and Joan Ryan Clements, with whom he had a wonderful relationship. Jimmy enjoyed a 48-year friendship with his brother-in-law Bill Clements, sharing a lot of history together, good times, and a banter that was always entertaining, loud and often boisterous as they debated and laughed about old times and new news. Jimmy also had a loving friendship with Arietta Wiedmann for 31 years. Jimmy Is also survived by many cousins, 3 nieces, 3 great nieces and nephews, all too many to name, but who all adored him and will miss him and his laugh. Jimmy was born the first child to James Paul Ryan and Margaret Sweeney Ryan on March 27, 1948. He was the first of 19 grandchildren who met every Sunday at their grandparent’s house for breakfast throughout his childhood. Jimmy attended and graduated from Loyola High school and Baltimore University. He worked in parole and probation in Baltimore, MD and Miami Beach, FL for years. When he returned to Baltimore he worked in the mortgage industry, managing reverse mortgages. Jimmy was the light of his mother’s eye, able to do no wrong even when ‘wrong’ was most certainly done on his part! He was a great brother, very protective of his sisters, both as a teenager and throughout his adult life. He talked to them frequently, in many cases daily, which he enjoyed and also tolerated as does a brother outnumbered by two sisters. He played baseball as a young boy, often being coached by his father. Those special times contributed to Jimmy becoming an avid sports fan, and he remained so throughout his life. He lived a full life with family and friends. He appreciated people for who they are and enjoyed a lot of laughs. His dry sense of humor was quite entertaining could be missed if you weren’t sharp enough to pick up on it. Jimmy was fortunate enough to be able to care for his mother as she was dying. His care and selflessness allowed her to remain in her home until her last day, which was a gift to his mother and his entire family. He took care of her without hesitation or a second thought, which is a demonstration of how he cared about others. In 2000 Jimmy won the lottery- the REAL DEAL- $1000 a week for the rest of his life! He used up all the lottery good luck for his family (haha!) but his family felt there was no one more deserving. He was always generous, taking care of everyone when the opportunity presented itself. Jimmy loved horseracing which he enjoyed with his dear friend Dickie (Earl) Jerardi, and legend has it that they were both very skilled when participating in antics at the tracks :) He loved political discussions and participated in many spirited debates, driving his family crazy and laughing hard as he talked his through the topics of the day. But most of all he was a kind, honorable man who would do anything to help anyone, and he will be truly missed by those who were lucky enough to know him. A celebration of life is scheduled for March 24th. Please contact the family for details on time and location. Memorial donations can be made in Jimmy Ryan’s name to the American Cancer Society, Baltimore, MD 21201.