Hugh James "Jim" Ryan's Obituary
Hugh James "Jim" Ryan III, 70, passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 5, 2022. Jim grew up in North Babylon, NY, but his adventurous spirit led him to St Augustine as a young man.
Most of his career, Jim was an HVAC technician, working mostly for Taylor Refrigeration and All American. (He was so extremely proud when his son started Ryan Heating and Air.)
Most all of Jim's hobbies were around his love for his sons. He enjoyed woodworking and building useful things. He showed his sons where you could search for local driftwood and how to cut and design picture frames. He loved working on old cars, and you would see him driving around in his Model A Firetruck, usually with his and other neighborhood, kids piled in the back. (He and his dad found that truck on Fire Island and ever since he had a fascination with Lighthouses and their history.) Jim liked riding motorcycles but enjoyed it the most with a group of friends or with his family. He loved camping and teaching children to appreciate it, too. Having two boys of his own it was a natural fit. He worked with the Royal Ambassadors and the Royal Rangers, started the Power Pack Boys Club, and taught Youth Ministry. Jim touched the lives of many in our community and the family is grateful for the many testimonies and tributes shared with them during this time.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Hugh and Catherine Ryan and his sister, Kathy. Jim is survived by his two sons Michael J. Ryan and Hugh James "Jimbo" Ryan IV (Ashton), his sister Peggy Burgess (Steve) of Plano, TX, four grandchildren Elijah James Ryan, Noah Livingston Ryan, Emma Grace Ryan (their mother Stacy) Hugh James Ryan V, and the mother of his children, Risa, whom he remained close with, as well as other extended family and those friends who felt like family.
In keeping with Jim’s wishes, there will be no formal service. The family invites all friends and family to join them as they celebrate his life at Genung’s Fish Camp, 291 Cubbedge Rd, in Crescent Beach, Sunday, March 20th from 5:00 - Sunset. Donations in his memory may be made at the St Augustine Lighthouse or a local charity of your choice.
“Knowing I did right with my time on this earth, was forgiven when I fell short, my race is finished, and I’ve entered into His presence.”
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