The referee community was sad to learn of the passing of James (Jim) Ryan of Jamaica Plain. Jim was 59 years old and had been suffering with pancreatic cancer for the past 18 months.The referee community was sad to learn of the passing of James (Jim) Ryan of Jamaica Plain. Jim was 59 years old and had been suffering with pancreatic cancer for the past 18 months.
Jim served as an assignor for BAYS, and was very interested in helping young referees. Despite his illness, he took an active role in mentoring younger officials and took great pride in their growth and development. Jim introduced his son Glen to refereeing when he was 16, and got his daughter Julia involved at age 12! Both are still active after many years. Jim's dedication to the game was noteworthy, and he was a featured guest at the 2005 MSRC Awards Banquet.
A Memorial Service is being planned for June 10th at 11am at the Central Congregational Church, 85 Seaverns Ave. in Jamaica Plain, followed by a luncheon in the church hall. In his honor, a fund has been set up to benefit Boston Medical Center's completion of the Moakley Building which will house and consolidate their cancer services. Donations will be greatly appreciated and should be directed to the:
Ryan Moakley Fund
c/o Boston Medical Center
Office of Development
660 Harrison Ave
3rd floor
Boston, MA 02118