Obituary of Rose Marie Ryan

Rose Marie Ryan (nee Fenton) passed away peacefully, with her family by her side, on Thursday, July 20, 2023, at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Born on November 2, 1933, at the Head of Millsteam, daughter of the late Leonard and Helen Fenton (nee O'Donnell). Beloved wife of the late George Ryan (2016).

Rose is survived by her children Shelly Graham, Libby (Peter) MacLeod, Danny (Rose) Ryan, and Timmy (Mary) Ryan; her grandchildren Jennifer (Rick), Sara, Patrick, Colleen, Catherine, and Kate (Kevin); her great grandchildren Terrence, Riley, and Makenzie; her sisters Denise (Dave) Isaacs, and Elizabeth (Gerry) Sussman, her sister-in-law Eileen Ryan, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Besides her parents and husband, Rose was predeceased by her brothers John and Daniel, her sister Theresa (Bertin), her son-in-law Terry Graham, her grandson Joshua Graham, and many in-laws.

Rose began her first teaching job in a one-room schoolhouse at the age of 16, before working for the Bank of Nova Scotia, and later as a daycare worker, daycare owner/operator, and kindergarten teacher.

After marriage she and George settled in Saint John, raising their family in the north end - Portland Place where she came to know many close neighbours and friends, who remain to this day. Rose cared for many children over the span of her career. She was a faithful parishioner of St. Pius X Catholic Church, and a member of the Catholic Women's League for over 60 years. Rose was actively involved with the Saint John Liberal Association. An avid hockey fan, she was a loyal Montreal Canadiens fan. George and Rose enjoyed many trips throughout Canada and the U.S.A. with her children and extended family. Many special memories were made at the "camp" on the "sweep" in Sussex, a special place that will continue to foster memories for future generations. Rose proudly remained in her own home until July 11, at which time she moved into Turnbull Nursing Home for a brief stay.

Friends and family will be received at Brenan's Funeral Home (506-634-7424), 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, on Sunday, July 23, 2023 from 2-4 and 6-8pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Redeemer Parish (St. Pius X), 316 Somerset Street, Saint John, on Monday morning at 11am. A reception will immediately follow the Mass. Interment in Saint Francis Xavier Cemetery, Wards Creek.

For those unable to attend the Mass in person, it will be livestreamed via the Funeral Home website.

The family extends a special thanks to Kindred Care Home Services, Extra Mural, Diabetic Teaching (S.J.R.H.), her physicians throughout the years, and the entire Joyce family. The family deeply appreciates the care and concern shown to Rose by the staff of Turnbull Nursing Home and S.J.R.H.-3BN, Palliative Care.

Donations in Rose's memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Diabetes Canada or your charity of choice. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.BrenansFH.com.