Jeffrey "Jeff" Thomas Ryan

Jeffrey "Jeff" Thomas Ryan, age 66, of Tallahassee, peacefully passed away at his home on December 3, 2023, surrounded by his loving family, after bravely battling early-onset Alzheimer's. Born in Ft. Lauderdale and raised in Dania Beach, Jeff was a man of outstanding accomplishments and unwavering dedication to the causes he believed in. After graduating from Hollywood Hills High School, earned his degree in Criminology from Florida State University in 1982. Jeff embarked on his distinguished political career in Washington, D.C. as an aide to U. S. Senator Lawton Chiles. He returned to his home state of Florida, contributing significantly to various roles including Executive Director for Broward County Legislative Delegation; Senior Policy Analyst for the Department of Commerce; Senior Policy Analyst for the Governor's Office; Broward Campaign Manager for the re-election of Governor Lawton Chiles; Finance Director for the Florida Democratic Party; and All Florida Solutions as Fundraiser and Lobbyist. His work journey concluded with a fulfilling chapter at Publix in Tallahassee. Jeff's commitment to community service was evident throughout his life. He held leadership positions in several organizations, reflecting his passion for making a positive impact. A devout member of Blessed Sacrament Church, Jeff actively participated in the Knights of Columbus, CRHP, and the Choir. He volunteered with Meals on Wheels and Operation BBQ Relief. He also served as member, President, and Treasurer of The Capital Lions Club; President, Board Member, and Chairman of Capital Tiger Bay Club; Board Member of the Tallahassee Museum; and Board Member of Springtime Tallahassee, as well as Twentieth Century Krewe Chief. Beyond his professional achievements, Jeff was a devoted fan of the FSU Seminoles and the Miami Dolphins. He found joy in boating, swimming in the ocean, and, most importantly, cherishing moments with his family. Known for his mischievous side, Jeff delighted in playing pranks and sharing laughter with friends, a trait that persisted during his time at the Alzheimer's Project Day Respite and Elder Day Stay. Despite the challenges posed by his illness, Jeff maintained his social graces and was always a true gentleman. His sense of humor remained a constant source of joy, and his love for family and friends never wavered. He leaves behind a legacy of infectious laughter and unconditional love. Jeff is survived by his loving wife, Cindy Ryan; children Pierce and Madison Lee; siblings Arch Ryan (Karen), Michael Ryan (Barbara), Tim Ryan (Debbie), Chris Ryan, Liz McCain (Dr. Joe McCain), and John Ryan; mother in law, Joyce Ellis; devoted best friend Shawn Banner (Tracy); and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Archibald John "AJ" Ryan and Johanna Ryan. Donations can be made in his memory to Big Bend Hospice Foundation, 1723 Mahan Center Blvd. Tallahassee, 32308, bigbendhospice.charityproud.org/Donate or Alzheimer’s Project, 2344 Centerville Rd., Suite 105, Tallahassee, Fl 32308, alzheimersproject.org The family sincerely thanks all caregivers and health professionals who supported Jeff over the last several years. Special thanks to the compassionate staff and volunteers at Big Bend Hospice, the caregivers of Angel Hands Loving Care, Frankie Fudge, the Magnolia Garden Club, the incredible neighbors on Washington Street and the dedicated AmeriCorps volunteers Drew and Natalie. A memorial mass will take place on Friday, January 12th at 11:30 am at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Tallahassee, Fl. Reception will follow at The Governors Club at 202 South Adams Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32301. Reception to follow with details to be provided at a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to St. Johns Family Funeral Home, St. Augustine, Florida. www.stjohnsfamilyfuneralhome.com

Jeffrey "Jeff" Thomas Ryan

March 12, 1957 - December 3, 2023