Kevin Ryan, a respected politician and community leader, passed away on November 23, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 73 years old. Predeceased by his parents, Joseph P. Ryan and Hazel Claire (McGuane) Ryan, and his siblings, Joseph, Richard, William, and Carol, Kevin leaves behind a legacy of public service and dedication to his community.
Born in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, on August 1, 1952, Kevin moved with his family to Montville, Connecticut, at the age of five. He graduated from St. Bernard’s High School before pursuing higher education at Villanova University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Bachelor of Science in Biology. His academic journey continued at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry, where he received a Doctorate in Optometry and a certificate in Public Health. He later served on the Board of Trustees at the college and obtained a Master of Arts in Community Psychology from the University of New Haven.
Kevin’s professional career was diverse and driven by a commitment to service. He began by working part-time at the Connecticut Visual Health Center in Bridgeport while contributing to his family business, Uncas Foods, Inc. His dedication to education led him to serve as an adjunct faculty member at the University of New Haven, where he taught Physics from 1980 onwards. In 2003, he transitioned to work at Mobile Medical Testing Service, which later became Exemplar Health Services.
His political career began with significant community involvement, serving on the Montville Board of Education for six years, including a term as Chairman. In 1992, Kevin was elected to the Connecticut House of Representatives, representing the 139th legislative district for over three decades. He was notably proud of his role as Co-Chairman of the Labor and Public Employees Committee for eight years and most recently served as Assistant Deputy Speaker Pro Tempore.
Kevin’s influence extended nationally through his involvement with various legislative organizations. He held positions such as past President and Treasurer of the National Conference of Legislators from Gaming States, Treasurer of the Summit of Rural and Agricultural Leaders, and recently was elected National Chair of the Council of State Governments. His participation in leadership programs included the Robert J. Thompson Eastern Leadership Academy and being a Tolls Fellow.
In addition to his political endeavors, Kevin actively contributed to numerous community organizations. He was a member of the Rotary, Elks, and Knights of Columbus, served as Chair of the Montville Democratic Town Committee, and was a Justice of the Peace. His leadership also included presidency of the Board for Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Southeastern Connecticut and involvement with the Alliance for Living Board of Directors.
Kevin is survived by his cousins, Martha, Thomas, George, Mark, and John McGuane, his godson Mackenzie Caron, and many friends who cherished him. His family expresses gratitude to the staff at Fairview Rehab and Nursing Home, West Hartford Health and Rehabilitation Center, and Yale New Haven Hospital for their compassionate care during his illness. They also appreciate the support of friends who stood by Kevin in his final days.
Family and friends are invited to visit on December 4, 2025, from 16:00 to 19:00 at Cummings Gagne Funeral Home, located at 82 Cliff Street, Norwich, Connecticut. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on December 5, 2025, at 10:00 at St. John the Evangelist Church, 22 Maple Avenue, Uncasville, Connecticut, with attendees asked to meet directly at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alliance for Living, Inc., at 154 Broad Street, New London, Connecticut 06320.