James J. Ryan Jr., 54, passed peacefully at his home in Phoenix, AZ, on Friday, April 4, 2014 due to a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family.

He was the loving and devoted husband of Stacey J. Ryan and the proud and doting father of Ian, Amy and Connor Ryan, stepfather of Gabrielle Newman.

James was born in Melrose, MA, on December 30, 1959, son of Carol A. Ryan of North Haven and the late James J. Ryan Sr.

He lived his early years in MA where his passion for the New England Patriots, the Boston Red Sox and Bruins began. He later moved to Reading, PA, graduated from Holy Name High School and from Widener University in Chester, PA, which led him to his fifteen-year career with State Farm.

Brother of Kathleen (James) Folmar of Oklahoma City, OK; Sharon Ryan-Johnson of Guilford; Judy (Ken) Ryan of Hamden; Andrew Ryan of Cromwell; Virginia (Paul) Sandella of Guilford; Peter Ryan of North Haven; and Matthew Ryan of Henrico, VA. Also survived by his ex-wife, Barbara Ryan of Norfolk, VA, and a host of nieces, nephews and other family members and lifelong friends.

Family and friends are invited to go directly to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, Hamden, on Saturday morning at 10:00 to attend a Mass of Christian Burial and are also invited to attend the committal services immediately following in All Saints Cemetery. Afterwards, all are welcomed to join the family for a celebration of "faith, family and heritage." There will be no visiting hours.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Ryan Children's Education Fund, 27 Marion Dr., North Haven, CT 06473.

The North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue has been entrusted with the arrangements. www.northhaven-funeral.com.