Shirley E. Ryan

Shirley E. Ryan, 87, of Knoxville, Illinois died at 2:55 p.m. Monday, March 23, 2015 in Galesburg Cottage Hospital.

She was born September 9, 1927 in Gilson, Illinois the daughter of John Edward “Eddie” and Emma May (Lewis) Boyer.  She married George F. Ryan on April 17, 1946 in Knoxville.  He preceded her in death May 22, 1998.

She is survived by two sons, David E. Ryan of Knoxville and Roger F. (and Vicki) Ryan of Galesburg; one granddaughter, Melissa L. (and Mark) Leffingwell of Denver, Colorado; and two great grandchildren, Rylie V. Leffingwell and Garrett R. Leffingwell. 

Shirley was primarily a homemaker, but had worked outside the home over the years at Admiral Corporation, Kanartex Corporation, Protexall Corporation, and First Christian Church in Galesburg.  She graduated from Haw Creek Township High School in Gilson in 1945.  She was a member of the First Christian Church in Knoxville.  She was always willing to assist others with transportation to church on Sunday.

Visitation will be noon to 1 p.m. Friday, March 27, 2015 at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Galesburg Chapel.  Graveside service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at the Knoxville Cemetery with Rev. David Shreeves officiating.  Memorial contributions may be made to the First Christian Church in Knoxville.  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.