Bernadette Ryan

Bernadette Ryan, aged 84, peacefully passed away in her sleep at her home in Dumont, New Jersey, surrounded by the love of her family, on January 19, 2024. She was born in Manorhamilton, County Leitrim, Ireland, on September 4, 1939, to her adoring parents John and Katherine (Feeney) McHugh.

Growing up on a farm in Manorhamilton, Bernadette shared her childhood with 15 siblings. In pursuit of new opportunities, she immigrated to the United States at the age of seventeen and settled in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. It was there that she met the love of her life, Thomas, whom she later married.

After starting their family, Bernadette and Thomas relocated to Leonia, New Jersey, where they built a life together and raised their three children.

Bernadette devoted her life to caring for others, extending her warmth and kindness to her children, grandchildren, and those she served as a caregiver. Her nurturing spirit and unwavering love were evident in every aspect of her life.

A lover of cooking, country and Irish music, dancing, spending time with her family, and playing bingo, Bernadette found joy in the simple pleasures of life.

She is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Thomas, her three children; Mary (Greg) Berzinsky, Anne Puppo, and Thomas, as well as her 5 grandchildren; Ashley, Victor, Ava, Kayla, and Thomas. Bernadette is also survived by her two sisters; Bridie Toner of London, England, and Winifred McDermott of Brooklyn, New York.

A memorial mass to celebrate Bernadette's life will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church, 470 Broad Ave, Leonia, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

May Bernadette's gentle soul rest in eternal peace.