David B. Ryan

David B. Ryan, age 78 of Wilmington passed away Saturday, August 21, 2021 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington.  A native of Birmingham, Alabama and a former resident of Franklin, Tennessee, he was the son of the late Ossie and Arba Harvey Ryan.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Dolph Ryan, sisters, Mary R.  Wallace and Barbara R. Gentry. 

David retired from Altec Industries in Alabama.  After his retirement, he moved to Fayetteville, NC and began his second career as an independent insurance broker and was active in the insurance industry until his death.  David was a veteran of the United States Air Force and was also involved with the Masonic Order.

David’s favorite pastime was cooking on his BBQ smoker for his family and friends.  He was truly a grill master and enjoyed sharing his cooking secrets with his friends, especially his famous white sauce.  When he wasn’t grilling, he was playing with his grandkids, whom he adored.  He was an avid Alabama football fan and loved to cheer his team to victory – Rolltide!! David enjoyed fishing as a hobby and spent many hours with his fishing buddies and family. 

David never met a stranger.  He was a fun-loving friend, father, husband, and “Big Daddy” to his grandchildren.  He enjoyed and got along with people of all walks of life and was a true friend to everyone he met.  He will be greatly missed and was loved beyond measure. 

David was survived by his wife of 27 years, Debby Matthews Ryan.  Son, John David Ryan (Heather) of Franklin, Tennessee.  Daughter, Carmen Ryan (Daniel) of Johnson City, Tennessee.  Step-son, Matthew Clark (Jenny) of San Diego, California.  Step-Daughter, Anna Murphy (Ryan) of Wilmington.  Sister, Janet Ryan Morgan (Michael) of Hartselle, Alabama.  7 Grandchildren, Ali Ryan, Molly Kitchens, Mason and Claire Murphy, Jake Ryan, William and Callie Clark.  1 great granddaughter,  Everly Oberholster. Many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Hospital, www.stjude.org/donate or to Fisher House Foundation, www.fisherhouse.org. 

A celebration of David’s life will be held at a later date. 

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