It is with much sadness to share that Mary Patricia Ryan passed away on Thursday, December 12, 2024.

She was preceded in death by her parents and by her dear friend Bobbie Harris. She will be greatly missed by her much loved dog Saffron.

It is impossible to list everyone touched by her kindness, sense of humor and inspiration. She was a caring person who gave education, love and support to many people.

Pat was born on June 2, 1946 to Madge and Thomas Ryan in Fayetteville, West Virginia. Her parents were school teachers and Pat followed the family tradition.

She studied education at Marshall University, marine biology at Stanford University and tropical marine ecology at Florida Institute of Technology. She taught Physical Education and Biology in public schools all over the country. Throughout her career Pat inspired and mentored her students.

From the day she was born she began making friends. Her father took her with him while he was building houses in the community and Pat played with the neighbors.

After starting school and teaching, her friendships multiplied and many of them became lifetime friends. Pat was an animal lover whose homes always included dogs, cats and many guinea pigs.

She will always be in our hearts, and she has changed us forever.

The services will be 1 p.m. at Dodd Payne Hess Funeral Home on Saturday, Dec. 21. Visitation begins at noon. Burial will follow at Huse Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, Pat requested memorials to Fayette County Animal Shelter.

For details, go to www.dignitymemorial.com>mary-ryan-12130822