William J. “Bill” Ryan passed away on May 5, 2025, at home in Peabody, Kansas. He was surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born on February 27, 1950, in Providence, Rhode Island to James T. and Jeanette M. (Burton) Ryan. On December 12, 1992, he married Janette Butler in Wichita, Kansas.
Bill served his country honorably for two tours in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, receiving many accolades and metals, including the bronze star.
He owned and operated Those Blasted Signs in Newton, Kansas for many years, using his wonderful artistic talent. Many of his signs can be found in Newton and surrounding areas.
Bill was an active member of the American Legion Post #2 in Newton and instrumental in the American Legion Riders honoring fallen veterans across Kansas.
His greatest joy was assisting and leading in the Newton Annual Toy Run every November for many years. Bill also joyfully helped with the American Legion Turkey Run at Fort Riley in Kansas.
He is survived by his wife Janette; son, Steven Ryan, daughters Nicole Ryan, Jennifer Brady (Matthew), Janice Garcia (Jessy) and Krystal Lieby (Tyler); sisters: Kathleen M. Nottell (John) and Patricia Keenan (Robert). He is also survived by several nieces and nephews that he loved dearly.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Michael P. Ryan.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 9:00AM-10:00AM at THE URQUHART-MURPHY FUNERAL HOME, 800 Greenwich Avenue, Warwick followed by Interment with Military Honors at the RI Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 301 S County Trail, Exeter.
The family expresses their deep gratitude for the compassionate care provided by the wonderful staff and nurses at Good Shepard Hospice Care.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Rheumatology Research Foundation, 2200 Lake Boulevard NE, Atlanta, GA 30319 or online at: https://www.rheumresearch.org/donate
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