Final Salute

AVERILL PARK – Philip James Ryan, age 77, of Averill Park, N.Y., passed away on April 3, 2026, Good Friday, a date which symbolizes his profound connection to his Roman Catholic faith. His family is left in peace, knowing that he transitioned from earthly suffering to Eternal Life, turning a moment of sorrow into an ultimate victory of faith. Phil leaves a legacy defined by service, curiosity, and deep love for others. A proud U.S. Navy Seabee, who served in Vietnam, he carried a lifelong spirit of dedication and quiet strength that shaped every part of his life. He was a devoted husband, father, and friend, who found his greatest joy in time spent with his beloved wife, family, friends, and cherished pets. Endlessly curious about the world, he embraced adventure and exploration, especially alongside his wife, and gave generously of himself through years of volunteer service in his community. To those who knew him, Philip was deeply loved and truly extraordinary.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Pamela J. Ryan, whom he always fondly introduced as “the Lovely Mrs. Ryan”; and his children, Erynn Petersen (Eric Picard), Heather Kness (the late Lenny), Courtney Williams (Marty), Philip James Ryan (Stefanie), Brendan Ryan (Megan), Garrison Ryan (Rolyn), Sarah Hansen (David), Melissa Valente (Matthew) and Kevin Ryan (Julia). His grandchildren, Noah, Elizabeth, Amelia and Emma, Ivy and Lily, Ryan, Christopher, Nicholas, Caoimhghin and Mela, Pip, Michaela and Drew, Ian and Allyson, Ember, Coal, Aiden, Bren and Brigid, Maeryn, Keating and Rona, Alessia, Madeline, Liliana, Rosemarie and Marilyn, Finnegan and Makenna. His elder sister, Cindy Ryan, his only sibling, whose enduring support and presence were valued throughout his life. Preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Alison Elizabeth Ryan; his son-in-law, Lenny Kness; his parents, grandparents and in-laws.
Philip James Ryan was born to Philip J. and Marguerite Ryan on June 14, 1948, in Troy, N.Y. Following Marguerite’s passing during Phil’s infancy, he had a lovely childhood in South Troy, raised by his father and his wife, Gertrude. He had countless fond memories growing up with his sister, Cindy, and many close cousins. Upon graduating from Catholic High in 1966, Phil attended Hudson Valley Community College, and worked at the IGA Saveway, where he met and fell in love with Pam. Phil joined the Navy as a Seabee shortly thereafter, embracing the Seabee motto “Can Do” for the rest of his life.
During his time in the Navy, Phil was a part of numerous campaigns with Marine Units in Vietnam. For his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze campaign stars, and Fleet Marine Force Combat Operations insignia, Vietnam Campaign Medal, with 1960 device and a Vietnamese Gallantry Cross with palm. Phil talked proudly about his time in the service and the friendships he made.
Upon returning home from Vietnam, Phil attended Siena College, and he and Pam continued growing their family. Phil began his career as a postal carrier at the Troy Post Office, where he enjoyed many close friendships in the city he loved. Phil and Pam settled in Averill Park in 1981. They raised their 10 children and instilled a love of adventure, family and resourcefulness, that was especially handy during their road trip scavenger hunts on the east coast, and many other adventures.
Phil was active in his community, becoming a life member of the Averill Park Fire Dept., and serving as President and Lieutenant of the Rescue Squad, and was also a recipient of Firefighter of the Year. He served on the board of the Sand Lake Ambulance, was president, and later a board member for Averill Park Pop Warner. He was an active communicant of the Catholic faith serving as a lector, Eucharistic minister and religious education teacher for St. Henry’s and member of the Sacred Heart parish. Phil loved being a part of the VFW, and later served with the honor guard at Saratoga National Cemetery.
Phil retired from the U.S. Postal Service in 2008 and returned to college. He achieved a lifelong dream of earning his Bachelor’s degree from Siena College in 2010. His family was so proud to see him walk across the stage and receive his diploma. Upon his retirement, Phil and Pam took time to enjoy their nearly six decades of life together. They completed visiting all 50 states, often leaving for weeks at a time to explore the country that Phil loved so dearly. Some of their favorite memories include attending Green Bay Packers games, driving to national parks, visiting Key West, various road side attractions, including the largest ball of twine, a trip to Alaska, family adventures, and a once in a lifetime trip to Ireland.
Phil loved his family. He could often be found wearing a shirt reading “this is what a really good Grandpa looks like.” He attended countless sporting events, recitals, graduations, concerts, military ceremonies and weddings. He was available for babysitting, and even relocated to Florida for a short time to care for his grandchildren. Phil was a born storyteller, entertaining family, friends and complete strangers with his wit and well-timed humor. He looked forward to attending his “birthday parade,” the Troy Flag Day Parade, each year. Phil valued education and service. He was an avid reader, and could be found checking books out of the library, recommending books he recently enjoyed, and then following up to make sure you enjoyed it as well. He loved many animals during his lifetime, including his dogs, Chief, Beethoven, and most recently, Casper. He leaves three cats, Mehetabel, Annette and Disney.
Phil was an incredibly proud man, and found so much joy in celebrating the accomplishments of his family. His big heart and smile will live on in the memory of those who knew and loved him. We encourage you to honor Phil by sharing your favorite of his jokes and some of your own.
Phil’s family has fulfilled his wish of donating his body to Albany Medical College for educational purposes. His family will be hosting a Memorial Service at the Averill Park Firehouse, located at 35 Eastern Union Turnpike, Averill Park, N.Y. 12018, on Friday, April 10, 2026. Hall will open at 6 p.m., with services starting at 6:30 p.m., with a light reception to follow. A Requiem Mass, celebrated by Father John Provost, will be held at Sacred Heart, on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. Sacred Heart is located at 310 Spring Ave., Troy, N.Y. 12180. Red, white and blue may be worn on either day to honor Phil.
In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made by mail to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, located at 3 Oakland Ave., Menands, N.Y. 12204.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Published by Albany Times Union on Apr. 9, 2026.