Born in Glendale, New York, on May 1, 1959, Tom was the first of five children born to Thomas F. and Shirley Ryan. A natural athlete, he played numerous sports in grade school and excelled in varsity track and football at Stuyvesant High School in NYC. He briefly attended City University before following in his father’s footsteps and joining the FDNY on July 11, 1981.

He began his FDNY career in Engine 324 and later moved to Ladder 138 in Corona, where he was instrumental in getting his two younger brothers into the same firehouse as they began their firefighting career. He finished his career at Ladder 33 in the Bronx, retiring on October 23, 2002. Tom was widely admired for his bravery, leadership, and unwavering dedication. Following the September 11th attacks, he reported to Ground Zero and worked tirelessly in rescue and recovery, driven by courage, compassion, and duty. His presence there reflected his deep courage and the values he lived by every day.

Tom was raised in a close-knit community where he formed lifelong friendships from an early age. Among those friends was the love of his life, Louise. Their bond grew stronger over the years, and they eventually married, building a life with their three children filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams. He found great joy in becoming a grandfather, cherishing every moment spent with his eight grandchildren. Family was always at the heart of everything Tom did. He was a devoted husband and caring father who taught his children integrity, kindness, and perseverance.

Tom had a deep love for the great outdoors and a passion for camping and hiking, born from his family’s annual camping trips from Queens to upstate New York. This joy was passed down from his father, who taught him to appreciate nature, adventure, and the simple beauty of time spent outside.

He was well known not just for his dedication to his family, but for his tireless work ethic and genuine compassion. Whether it was his service with FDNY, volunteering as a local firefighter, or simply being there for a friend in need. Tom was the one everyone could count on. He gave freely of his time, never asked for anything in return, and was truly one of the most selfless people you could meet.

Tom battled his 9/11-related illness with the same quiet strength and dignity that defined his life. With his family surrounding him, he peacefully passed in the comforts of his home on November 5, 2024.