Nelson W. Ryan

Nelson Whitridge Ryan passed away on May 19, 2026 at the age of 95 at Pear Tree Manor in Colora, Maryland. Nelson was born on February 27, 1931 in Baltimore, Maryland to Howard Whitridge and Mary Irene (Nelson) Ryan. He grew up on the Ryan family farm on Ryan Road in Fallston and on Clayton Road in Joppa, spending his time with his younger brother, Howard, and their large extended family within Harford County. After retirement, he returned to the family home on Clayton Road, where he lived for many years.

Nelson graduated Bel Air High School in 1950 and served in the Army Quartermaster Corps, participating in the Army of Occupation in Austria. After his honorable discharge, he spent many years working for the Glenn L. Martin Company as a tool and die maker supporting the manufacture of aircraft for the defense industry. He also worked for years at the Motor Vehicle Association in Bel Air. Nelson was a kind and thoughtful man and much loved by those who knew him well.

At 95, Nelson was preceded in death by most friends and relatives, including his brother Howard Mays Ryan. He is survived by a nephew, Robert (Deborah) Ryan; niece, Colleen Susan Ryan; three grand-nieces, Jane, Katherine, and Margaret; one grand-nephew; Michael, and second cousin and caregiver Mark (Phyllis) Ryan.