Gloucester Alumni

GLOUCESTER — Eileen E. Ryan, 44, of 14 Patriots Circle, died Sunday evening, April 20, 2008 in the Addison Gilbert Hospital following an extended illness.

Born in Beverly on Oct. 31, 1963, she was the daughter of Linda J. (Evans) and William Riley. She was a graduate of the Gloucester High School, Class of 1981.

After graduation, she enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and proudly served her country for eight years, having been based in North Dakota, California, Texas and Colorado. Following her discharge, she lived in Guam for five years. She had been residing in Gloucester for the last decade.

A lifelong advocate for people in need, she volunteered tirelessly for numerous organizations. Eileen was an organizer for Project Uplift, and a board member for the Essex County Community Organization, and the Action for Justice League. She was also a member of the Riverdale Park Committee. At one time, she was also involved with the local H.A.W.C. Program.

In addition to her parents, she is survived by her children, Elizabeth R. Combs, Mellissa D. Combs, and Kenneth G. Pangelinan; a grandson, Ryan Scott Biggar; her long-time companion and best friend, Reuben James, and his son, Corey James; a sister, Colleen M., wife of Dean Nicastro; two brothers, Timothy P. Ryan and Thomas P. Ryan; an aunt, Edith Cunha; a niece, Christina Nicastro and nephew, Anthony Nicastro; her father, Peter G. Ryan; and among many dear friends, she leaves, Elizabeth Kiff.