Sheila Mae Ryan

Sheila Mae Ryan (nee Willis)

May 13, 1936 - May 29, 2023

It is with great sadness that the Ryan Family announces the passing of Sheila Mae Ryan, age 87, who slipped into death peacefully in her home on May 29, 2023. Born in Truro, she was a daughter of the late Isaac William Willis Sr. and Theresa Jane (Clyke) Willis.

Sheila was a cherished matriarch of the Ryan family and took on the caring role of sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and dear friend with an open heart and the warmth of her love. She touched the lives of all those who had the privilege of knowing her and will be deeply missed.

Born on May 13, 1936, a true twin soul to her beloved husband, Arthur Ryan Sr., who predeceased Sheila on October 1, 2002, in Truro, and whom she has now rejoined, Sheila brought an immense amount of joy into this world. She embodied strength, kindness, grace, dignity, and perseverance to those whose lives she touched. Her gentle spirit, kind heart, and unwavering compassion for those she cherished left an indelible impression on friends and acquaintances who were fortunate enough to share her presence.

Her sharp wit and gift for bringing laughter into conversations with most everyone she met will be missed. Every person who knew her well, knew that she was an incredible baker, had a keen eye for detail with tasks demanding craftsmanship, and never hesitated to express the joy her heart held for her children and husband. She truly adored her family, and her sons adored her.

Sheila’s legacy will continue to inspire us to be better versions of ourselves, to spread positivity, and to always show empathy to others, just as she did throughout her life.

Sheila is survived by her three sons, Arthur, Anthony, and Christopher; her grandchildren, Justin, Kayla, and Ali, and her great-grandchildren, Jayla and Lilliana, as well as her brother, Isaac Jr. (Ikie), and sisters, Phyllis (Mrs. Lorne Marsman) and Donna Willis, all of Truro. Sheila was predeceased by her sisters, Jeannette and Beverly, and a brother, Wayne. Responsibility, commitment, and love for her family were qualities that defined how sincerely she held her family and extended family close to her heart.

May we find solace in the love, laughter, and memories that leave us feeling connected to Sheila.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to a local Animal Shelter of your choosing, in honour of Sheila and her cherished dog, Benji. This gesture best expresses her empathy and commitment to making the world a better place through care and compassion.

As we bid farewell to Sheila, our beloved sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and always genuine friend, let us hold onto the lessons she taught us in her time with us. Though she may no longer be with us physically, her bright spirit will forever live on in our hearts, inspiring us and comforting us as only she can. Rest in eternal peace, Sheila, Mom, and Nana. You are and will always be lovingly remembered and cherished.

Composed by:

Ali Michelle Ryan, Granddaughter

A Celebration of Sheila’s Life will be held on Tuesday, June 6th from 1–3pm in Colchester Community Funeral Home, 512 Willow Street. Truro, NS. Open mic for shared memories will be availble. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.ColchesterCommunity.com