Community Mourns Loss of Dorothy Ann Ryan, 82, in Florida

Dorothy Ann Ryan, aged 82, passed away on January 17, 2026, at Cornerstone Hospice in Lady Lake, Florida. Born on October 22, 1943, in Iowa City, Iowa, she was the daughter of John B. Gehl and Lula M. (Parrott) Gehl. Her passing marks the end of a life filled with love for family, a passion for travel, and a commitment to education.

Dorothy married Thomas F. Ryan Jr. on February 11, 1961, at Sacred Heart Church in Clinton, Iowa. The couple shared a deep bond, enjoying extensive travels together. They explored all 50 states and Canada, creating lasting memories along the way.

After dedicating 29 years to the Clinton Community School District, Dorothy retired in 2023. Her career also included roles as a nurse’s aide at both Harbor Crest Nursing Home in Fulton, Illinois, and Averno Nursing Home in Clinton, Iowa. This professional experience showcased her commitment to caring for others, a trait she carried into her personal life.

Dorothy and Tom eventually relocated to The Villages, Florida, to be closer to their daughter, Elizabeth (Karen) Ryan-Malinowski, and to enjoy the warm Florida sun. In addition to her family, Dorothy had a keen interest in genealogy and cherished her interactions with children while driving a school bus.

Legacy of Love and Family

Dorothy Ryan is survived by her daughter Elizabeth, two sons, Eric (Jen) Ryan and John Ryan, three granddaughters, two grandsons, and nine great-grandchildren. Her family remembers her as a loving matriarch who was deeply involved in their lives and a source of unwavering support.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Francis Ryan Jr., her parents, and several siblings, including brothers Donald Gehl, Jack Gehl, and Bob Gehl, as well as her sister Mary Blinkinsop. Tragically, she also lost two daughters, Kelly Ann Liston and Jennifer Lynn Thompson, and her grandson, Chris Lucke.

Dorothy’s passing has left a profound impact on her family and the community she served. Her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched, both personally and professionally. As the community of The Villages mourns her loss, they celebrate the remarkable life of a woman who dedicated herself to her family and her work.

Dorothy Ryan will be dearly missed, but her spirit and love for family will continue to resonate within those she leaves behind.