WILMINGTON — William David Ryan passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, June 15, 2024. Known to many as David, he lived a life of pure joy.
David was born on May 2, 1935 in Red Bank, NJ, to Miriam and William Ryan. David’s formative years were spent in Red Bank, where he attended St. James Grammar School and graduated from Red Bank Catholic High School. In 1954, he married Eileen Giblin. Together, they lovingly welcomed six children, and David established a successful career in real estate.
In 1974, David married Sheila Dickson, and they were blessed with one child, expanding his loving family. David’s professional journey took a new direction in the early 1980’s when he began working for the Garden State Parkway. His dedication and hard work were evident until his retirement in 2002.
Following his retirement, David relocated to Wilmington, NC. In 2007, he found love again and married Sally Murphy, with whom he shared seventeen years. David and Sally enjoyed many adventures and travels around the world, but they always cherished coming back to their home.
David was predeceased by his former wives, Eileen and Sheila, and his beloved granddaughter, Kelly Dockery. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Sally; his brother, John B. Ryan; his seven children, thirteen grandchildren, and fourteen great-grandchildren. In addition to his natural born children are Sally’s family. These include her five children (one being Kevin who passed on 9/11), fourteen grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He treasured them as if they were his own. His family was his greatest pride and joy, and he cherished the moments spent with them.
David’s legacy is one of joyous love. He will be remembered for his infectious smile, always knowing when a good laugh would help, and his harmless mischief – pocketing sugar packets from restaurants comes to mind. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:00AM Thursday, June 27, 2024, at St. Mark Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations in David’s memory may be made to the Assistance League of Greater Wilmington, 420 Eastwood Road, Wilmington, NC 28403, or online or by mail to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401.
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