Tribute Wall
In Memory of
Ms. Jessica Polly Ryan
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Jenny O posted a condolence
Friday, June 7, 2024
I was an incredibly lonely and insecure teen and young adult. Whether she knows it or not, Jess got me through high school and undergrad, I’m not sure I would have made it without her. She accepted me as I was and without judgement. I did the same for her. We found comfort and peace in each other, in a world where we both often felt like social outcasts. Our connection was natural and indescribable.
Jess gave me the gift of feeling deeply connected to someone, during a time where I felt completely alone. She gave me safety; with her, I knew I could just be my authentic, socially awkward self. She showed me that I was deserving of real and enduring friendship. Jess gave me hope in humanity during a very dark time in my life.
As years passed, we grew further and further apart geographically, but never as friends. Although we no longer spent regular time together, we would always meet up whenever I traveled back home to Toronto to visit my family. The effort she would put forth to see me was never lost on me. She would make the trek across town to visit me, would be on time, and sometimes, even got to our meeting point before me.
Jess was family to me, and I know I was that to her. I will miss our comfortable silences, painful (in a good way) laughing fits, stupid ideas, and deep conversations. I will forever be grateful to have had you in my life, Jess; you will always hold a special place in my heart and in my soul.
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Ellen Choi posted a symbolic gesture
Friday, June 7, 2024
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Jessbo - I'm wondering what it's like where you are. I picture you smirking with your head cocked to one side and looking down at us sitting at our computers trying to find the words to express what we're feeling and then typing up the heartache and love we're moving through in this little white box. I can almost feel your hand on my shoulder. I'm grateful I got to grow up around someone as strong, straight shooting, and steadfast as you. Having RMT time with just you and not Mary and everyone else was such a treat - thank you for listening and gently/openly mocking me just enough. You supported a lot of people while you were here on earth and I hope that all the laughter you generated while you were with us is credited to you in the next world as a series of amazing superpowers that you abuse just the right amount. Sending you love. xo, Ellen Choi
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Suzie Maxwell uploaded photo(s)
Friday, June 7, 2024
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Jessica, Jess, Jessbo, Jbo (and on occasion, Warrior Princess) was an amazing human. Jess made a huge impression and impact on everyone she encountered, with her undeniable wit, her voice of reason, and a way of knowing you better than you knew yourself. And of course, the ability to call you out if you were being unreasonable (mainly, to those she loved).
We met during our first week at Brock and instantly bonded. She became one of my closest friends and welcomed me into her "girls" group of extraordinary women, whom she absolutely adored and was so proud of.
Some of my favourite memories, from our Brock days and after, were spending countless nights laying around listening and analyzing the lyrics to all genres of music (one of the things I still do to this day and every time I think of Jess).
Jess taught me how to cook (well she did most of the cooking, but if meat was involved, I had to be the one to touch it).
Our adventures to Cherry Beach with our fur babies (B-dubs & Sadie Bear).
The uncontrollable laughter from just silly, random things one of us would do, that could lead to tears and a lot of Kleenex.
When you were down, or just needed a hug, Jess would give the world's best bear hugs and wouldn't let go until you matched her.
Jess was not afraid of telling those she loved that she loved them and gave me grief for not saying it as much as I should. She won (yes Jess, I said you won), and I'm grateful our final words to each other were I love you.
Until we meet again my friend, you will be forever missed and always in my heart XOXO.
Love you
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Gary Whyte posted a condolence
Friday, June 7, 2024
Jessbo, I do not know where to begin with our memories together. There are so many secrets we have and I too will take them with me.
Our memories pick up later in high school, when I finally arrived to Malvern and then our journey to Brock.
Jess, one thing that stands out is you always picking me up in highschool in the top off Jeep (the reason why I til this day, LOVE that vehicle) you were with me for the craziest of things. You dared me to pierce my tongue and I said "if you pay for it, I'll do it" (honestly not believing you would). I had no choice but to go through with it. Til this day I have it. You'll always be on my "tongue" lol.
We arrive at Brock together where our friendship continued on top our foundation and stood strong. I went through some tough times, where you were the one to lean on. The countless conversations and nights spent together, I cannot repay you for. Our years together at Brock was all about that.
We leave Brock and our friendship continued to grow. The one memory that sticks out is how you were there for me when Shaun suddenly passed. Jessbo, I cannot and will not ever be able to thank you enough for being there.
The memories are countless. But there is one thing that remains and will never leave, the love we had for each other. Taurus Babies always together (5 days apart). I will see you again. I'm sure Shaun met you with open arms and will keep you as we meet again. Love you forever. Rest in Eternal Peace. Rest easy.
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Marilyn Ryan Posted Jun 7, 2024 at 11:53 AM
Shaun this is beautiful. I know Jess cared very much for you.
Marilyn Ryan
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Marilyn Ryan Posted Jun 7, 2024 at 6:39 PM
Gary, I’m so sorry I put Shaun’s name there. I was upset and thinking about Shaun going so early, again, so sorry.
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Gary Whyte Posted Jun 8, 2024 at 12:40 PM
Mrs. Ryan,
There is no need to apologize. I completely understand. I have the same feeling for Jess as I did when my brother passed, very sudden. I've had many dreams lately of them both since I've found out
Each day truly has been a blurr and I keep replaying all the years and time I've spent with Jess (along with my brother) I know what you're going through. My parents as well went through same loss.
Have faith and put your strength into all the good Jess was. You guys did a amazing job!
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Mary Choi lit a candle
Thursday, June 6, 2024
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I was 16 years old and had my G2 for maybe 3 weeks, if that. I was driving my parent's 1993 White Fleetwood Cadillac. I could barely see over the steering wheel. Driving in rush hour, I attempted to make a lane change, and my swift power move was met with a huge bang as a large white van came colliding into the side of my Cadillac knocking the bumper 80% off the front of my dad's prized possession. Completely stunned, overwhelmed and terrified of what my parents were going to do to me, I did the only rationale thing any teen would do: I called Jess. In my moment of crisis, I used my first quarter to call her. I explained my situation to her and she said to me what any wise 16-year-old would say, "Why, the hell are you calling me!?!? Are you certifiably insane!? Get a grip, and call you parents right now." Then she hung up on me. I know what you are thinking, she is such a great friend.
Jess, for anyone who got to know her like I did, leaned on her for advice, support, and wisdom. If you ever shared a meal or a beverage with her, you never made it to the bottom of your drink without some of it coming through your nose from her hilarious quick witted comments which were mostly loving jabs about you. She lived for the moment and had a passion for anything ridiculous and hilarious. Jess's favourite Christmas ornaments were grinning glittering zebras with top hats wearing boas- I have a few on my tree every year. Many of my memories over the last 30+ years have Jess interwoven in them. For the remainder of this lifetime, it's heart breaking to know that I have to make more memories without you apart of them. I wish you were still my first call but I see you in the silhouette of dragon shaped clouds and the sunsets teasing us from the edge of the rainbow. I know you are finally free from pain. Miss you like crazy xx.
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Carolynn uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, June 6, 2024
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So many memories and stories to cherish as I remember the many years I was fortunate to call Jess a friend. I will nurture the tender moments we shared at the end that I feel truly blessed to have had. I miss you Jess and keep playing the tragically hip to help me process your loss. Laughing, smiling, crying and singing as loudly as I can.
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Kate Walker uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, June 6, 2024
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I am having a hard time coming up with a memory of Jess, or story to share, there are simply too many to choose from and not one that will incapsulate all of who she was. Most of my memories from grade 4 to age 44 include Jess. A life time of memories, stories, and love. Thank you Jess for helping to shape the person I am today, for loving me and my babies through good times and bad, for making me laugh so hard I nearly pee my pants, for being a constant source of support, and always just one phone call away. You will be missed more than I have words for. I love you!
Marilyn, Patrick, Liv and Matt please know that we are here for you. Big love, always.
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Lori McGoran posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 5, 2024
These pics made me laugh and cry. Jess was the most special girl. A great daughter, sister, dog mom and friend. She had an outsized personality and could argue with the best of them. I remember Marilyn telling me that she loved having the last word (especially around her
Grandfather) I think I babysat her when she was only a few months old and remember that she was such a gorgeous, happy baby. Her life was cut way too short but I know she made a big impact on the lives she touched and was well loved. In the end, those are the things that matter. Mary, Kim, Michael and I and all of the kids were so sad to hear of her passing. May she rest in peace and be remembered often.. Love to Pat, Marilyn, Olivia and Matt from all of us xxxxxxx
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Morgan Taylor uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, June 5, 2024
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Very sad to hear this news and wishing all the family and friends all the best in this tough time. Going to Kew Beach, Bowmore and Malvern with Jess was a great part of growing up and she will not be forgotten but will live on in our hearts and memories.
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Lynda Hough posted a condolence
Saturday, June 1, 2024
We were heartbroken to hear of Jess’s passing. It seems as though Jess has been a part of our family forever. She was such a great friend to our daughter Danielle. We have lots of happy memories of Jess.
She came away on holidays with us and spent many hours hanging out with Dani and the family at our house. She was always so polite and gave the biggest and best hugs whenever we saw her. She had such a great sense of humour and always made us laugh.
Words cannot express how sorry we are for your loss of such a beautiful soul. Rest in peace Jess. ❤️
Love Lynda and Dave Hough.
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Melissa Godsoe posted a condolence
Saturday, June 1, 2024
I am devastated to hear this.
I got to know Jessica when we took a high school victory lap together. We were determined to kill it. We studied together it seemed like every weeknight and she drove me to school and home every day. She was one of the reasons I did so well that year.
She was an incredible human and I got to know how kind and funny she was.
We hadn’t stayed in touch over the years but I felt incredibly lucky to know her for the time I did.
I am so sorry for her family and her tight group of friends. She was a force and just a beautiful person to know. Your loss must feel unbearable.
J
Julie O posted a condolence
Saturday, June 1, 2024
Jess was one of my sister's (Jenny) best friends growing up and I always remembered how I admired Jessbo. Her sense of humor and her wit was so contagious and always made me smile. I remember when I was younger, wishing that one day I wokld be able to throw out the same type of witty, funny banter that Jess was capable of. She def did leave an impression on everyone that met her. It was an honor knowing her. Rest in peace Jessbo. You will be missed greatly.
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Danielle Ferris posted a condolence
Saturday, June 1, 2024
Jess was an amazing person who made a huge imprint on my life. She was more than a friend, she was like a sister. She made me laugh, she was a protector, she called me out on my crap, she was a rock, she was a shoulder to cry on, she was a roommate for years, she was a fantastic road trip buddy, and she was ALWAYS there for me.
Jess and I met when we were 9 years old and over the last 36 years we have been through so much. She was a constant in my life and was always by my side. They say that those who touch our lives, stay in our hearts for ever. I know this is true of Jess. Her life was a gift and her memory a treasure. I loved her beyond words and will miss her beyond measure.
Forever in my heart and always by my side, love you Jess! ❤️ xo Dani
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Erik Paquette uploaded photo(s)
Friday, May 31, 2024
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Jessie Paquette posted a condolence
Friday, May 31, 2024
Sorry for your loss I remember her as a sweet little girl at Carole’s and Tex’s wedding She will be missed Jessie Paquette
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Dani Ferris uploaded photo(s)
Friday, May 31, 2024
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Dani Ferris uploaded photo(s)
Friday, May 31, 2024
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Dani Ferris uploaded photo(s)
Friday, May 31, 2024
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Dani Ferris uploaded photo(s)
Friday, May 31, 2024
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Danielle Ferris uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, May 30, 2024
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Dani Ferris uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, May 30, 2024
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The family of Ms. Jessica Polly Ryan uploaded a photo
Thursday, May 30, 2024
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Thursday, May 30, 2024
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The family of Ms. Jessica Polly Ryan uploaded a photo
Thursday, May 30, 2024
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The family of Ms. Jessica Polly Ryan uploaded a photo
Thursday, May 30, 2024
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The family of Ms. Jessica Polly Ryan uploaded a photo
Thursday, May 30, 2024
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