Joan Ryan Obituary

Joan M. Ryan, 72, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2025 at her home surrounded by her loved ones and under the direction of Hospice of Jefferson County.

Born on February 4, 1953, in Watertown, NY., she was the daughter of the late Thomas and Betty Whitfield Denner.

Joan’s life was filled with love for her family, compassion for animals, and joy in the simple pleasures of everyday life. Together with her husband James, Joan was a passionate advocate for wildlife. The two spent many years caring for injured and orphaned animals, offering their time and hearts to protect and nurture creatures in need.

At home, Joan enjoyed knitting, baking, sewing, canning, and dancing to great music — hobbies that reflected her creativity, warmth, and zest for life.

She is survived by her four sons: James (Angel) Jr. of Watertown, Shawn (Missy) of Watertown, Joshua (Brittany Beardmore) of Adams Center, and Jeremiah (Sasi Smith) of Lorraine; 14 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Also surviving is her siblings, Bonnie (Donald) Hamilton, Theresa; Colleen (Pearlie) Jones, Brier Hill; sisters-in-laws, Nancy Stuckey, Great Bend; Rena Gebo, Great Bend; brothers-in-laws, Francis (Patty) Ryan, Watertown; Neil Ryan, Great Bend; Toby (Cheryl Ryan, Mannsville.

 She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, James and her son Cory.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the family home on Friday, October 10, beginning at 3:00 p.m

Joan will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched.

Online condolences can be made at www.carpenterstoodley.com