Obituary of John Watters Ryan

John Watters Ryan, 86, of Seabrook, passed away on December 27, 2020 in Tideview Terrace with his family by his side.  He was born in Digby and was the son of the late Bill and Martha (Hutchins) Ryan.

John joined the Air Force at age 17 and met Betty, his future wife of 65 years, in Summerside PEI.  They were posted to Quebec, Newfoundland and Nova Scotia and had children in each of these places.  Once back in Nova Scotia, the family would spend almost every weekend in Digby.  He and Betty built their own retirement home next door to where he grew up.  He retired at age 42 with 25 years of service and they moved home to Digby where he enjoyed fishing in the weir and on lobster and scallop boats for quite a few years.  The kitchen table in their little house was the common watering hole with friends and family always stopping by to spin a yarn and socialize.

He leaves behind many friends and a loving family who will miss him dearly.  His loving wife Betty Ryan of Digby; his children Bill Ryan (Beatrice) of Greenwood, Vicki Ryan (Blaine) of Walton and Reni O’Flaherty (Ross) of Dartmouth; his grandchildren Angela, Ryan, Sarah, Erin, Allison and Aiden as well as great-grandchildren Brady, Connor, Jade and Alma.  He is also survived by his sister Jean Amirault (Tom) and brother Patrick Ryan (Coleen).

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by sister Marie and brothers Lovett “Shorty” and Keith.

Heartfelt thanks are sent out to the wonderful staff at Langford House (Tideview Terrace) for the care and compassion they gave for his entire stay, not only to John but Betty as well. 

A gathering to remember John and share a funny story or two will take place on Saturday, January 2, 2020 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm downstairs at the Digby Legion.  Social distancing measures will be in place and face masks are required. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memoriam to the Digby Legion, Branch #20. Arrangements have been entrusted to Serenity Funeral Home, Digby County Funeral Chapel, 367 Highway #303, Digby, B0V 1A0 (902-245-2444).