Mary Ryan, loved theater

Mary “Kay” Ryan passed away Saturday, March 26, 2022, at the age of 88.

Kay was born Sept. 13, 1932, the only daughter of Edward and Mary Ryan (both deceased). She was very proud of her Irish heritage. Kay spent a large part of her life in South Boston, Mass. She received her bachelor’s degree from Emmanuel College, her master’s in business administration from Boston University, and a law degree from Harvard University. 

After earning her degrees, Kay joined the Foreign Service of the U.S. State Department, where she held posts in Ceylon and Buenos Aires. She had an extensive career with the U.S. Government, working at the Federal Trade Commission and serving as director of the Bureau of Compliance at the Consumer Product Safety Commission and deputy chief counsel at the Small Business Administration.

In 2001, Kay moved to Delaware. A love of theater led her to become council chair for Clear Space Theatre Company in Rehoboth Beach for many years. Kay also loved a good argument. She followed politics locally and nationally. Political talk shows, newspaper articles, books, and conversations were her passions. 

Kay is survived by many caring and loving friends.

On Thursday, April 7, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Ann Catholic Church in Bethany Beach. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by Mass at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kay’s honor to the following charities: Food Bank of Delaware, Little Sisters of the Poor in Newark, or Habitat for Humanity. 

Online condolences can be made by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.