Larry Wayne Ryan

Larry Wayne Ryan was born on January 20, 1950, in Dallas, Texas. He went to be home with his Heavenly Father on October 31, 2025.

He was the beloved son of Nathanial Wayne Ryan and Elsie Mae Ryan, who raised him in Garland, Texas, where he enjoyed a loving home and a neighborhood full of friends he kept for life. He was a member of the third class to graduate from South Garland High School in 1968, where he was active in many organizations, including the Spanish Club (1966–1968; Vice President, 1967–1968), Chemistry Club (1966–1968), Key Club (1966–1967), Sentries (1967–1968), and Student Council (1965–1968; Member at Large, 1965–1968; Reporter, 1967–1968). He was also honored by his classmates as Senior Most Friendly in 1968.

Larry spent much of his career in the film industry, where he oversaw the distribution of new movie releases. He later transitioned into a career in sales, where he was consistently a top producer and a trusted representative, known for his authenticity, warmth, and genuine love of people.

Larry will be remembered for his friendly nature and his deeply rooted love for his family and friends. True to the honor of being voted as “Most Friendly” by his graduating class, Larry carried this quality throughout his life, never meeting a stranger and blessing many during his journey with his kindness and love. It was rare to go anywhere with him without running into someone he knew, as he touched many along the way with his gentle nature and genuine kindness.

Larry loved sports, with a special affection for golf and baseball. He loved all teams, “Dallas.” At family gatherings he was known for commandeering the recliner and remote, to watch golf or, on Sundays, his beloved Cowboys. He played softball well into his adulthood and spent many Wednesdays at the bowling alley. One unforgettable night, he bowled a 299 - a near perfect game – as a crowd of fellow bowlers watched the final pin wobble teasingly only to remain in place. Some of his greatest joys came from coaching his children’s sporting events and watching their performances. He also cherished attending Ranger’s games and, more than anything, simply spending time with his family. He loved his people.

He is survived by his children, Patrick Wayne Ryan, Daniel Thomas Ryan, Christopher Neil Ryan, and Leah Renee Brock, grandchildren, Alex Santiago, Nathali Santiago, Oscar Rene Santiago, Abel Marin Ryan, Shaylyn Marie Ryan, Kyleigh Patricia Ryan, Karmen Ann Ryan, and Aubrey Buono, his sister Jean Ellen Ryan Kolich and husband Tom. He also leaves behind beloved in-laws, extended family, and dear friends who shared deeply in his life and love. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nathanial Wayne Ryan, and Elsie Mae Ryan.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 14, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Charles W. Smith and Sons Funeral Home, 2925 5th Street, Sachse, Texas 75048.

A funeral to honor the wonderful blessing Larry was to all who knew him, will be held on Saturday, November 15, at 1 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Garland, 425 S. 9th Street, Garland, Texas 75040 in the MacDonald Activity Center.

Interment will follow at Restland Memorial Park, 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75243.

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience” (Colossians 3:12)