Jeanne V. Ryan

Jeanne Vanyo Ryan of Bowie, Maryland passed peacefully on September 6, 2020 after a brief illness. She was 90 years old.

Jeanne was preceded in death by her parents, Veronica and John Vanyo; her husband, Joel Kenneth Ryan, and her son, Joel Bradley Ryan. She is survived by daughter, Vanessa Ryan (husband Earl); son, Darrell S Ryan (wife Mariela), and two (2) grandchildren, Alexander and Gabriella Ryan.

Born in Brooklyn, NY, she moved to Bowie in 1966 where she was a well-known and active member of the community.

Prior to moving to Bowie, she resided in New York City where she studied music at NYU and Queens College and later became an accomplished concert pianist. She debuted at the Steinway Concert Hall in NYC and was featured in on-air recordings and concerts in New York City. Jeanne was a feminist before feminism was popular. Ever strong-willed and independent, she loved to travel and experience life to its fullest, including her beloved trips to Cuba and Italy. She enjoyed life in NYC well into her late twenties when she met her future husband at a dance. She knew immediately that he was the one. After a few short stays in other states, they ended up in Bowie where they raised their three children.

A lifelong musician, she was a well-known and beloved piano teacher in Bowie for over 40 years. An active member of the Maryland State Music Teacher’s Association, she was involved in many leadership roles including President and Director of the Music Theory Test. She also served as an election judge for 10 years.

For entertainment, Jeanne loved to play games and was an active member of the Kenilworth Women’s Club, multiple games groups, and bridge clubs throughout the area. Whether a large gathering at her beloved Comfort Inn or small group at a home, Jeanne could always be found playing cards and games with friends.

Jeanne was an amazing and loving Mother, Wife, and Friend and she will be missed dearly.

In lieu of flowers, you may provide a charitable donation to BRAVA Bowie Regional Arts Vision Association.

A memorial service will be held on September 12, 2020 from 10AM to 1PM, at Beall Funeral Home, 6512 Crain Highway, Bowie, MD 20715