John Francis Ryan, III

John Francis Ryan, III, left this world peacefully to be with our Lord and Savior on February 3, 2022, at the age of 69, in the comfort of his home in Spring, Texas, surrounded by his beloved family. He was born January 16, 1953 in New Orleans, Louisiana to Honorine Laneri and John Francis Ryan Jr. He was a loving husband, father and Paw Paw, a faithful servant of the Lord and lifelong supporter of Jesuit in New Orleans.

John attended Jesuit High School where he developed a love for all things sports; especially baseball, which led to a full scholarship to Tulane University. Forgoing an opportunity to play professional baseball, John made the move to Houston to work for Alexander Industries, thus beginning a very accomplished 44-year career path in the oil and gas industry. In time, he purchased the company, renamed Alexander / Ryan Marine & Safety. He eventually sold the company but worked under contract as CEO / president until retiring four years ago. Even after retirement, his entrepreneurial spirit led to many successful business endeavors, some of them negotiated just days before his passing.

John’s hard work, integrity and “man of his word” reputation was admired and recognized throughout the industry. He was honored with the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year for the Oil and Gas Sector and was appointed to the U.S. Coast Guard National Offshore Safety Advisory Committee, where he served as chairman for 12 years. He served as President of the Marine Services Association of Texas and the East End Chamber of Commerce. He was a generous sponsor and supporter of the Texas Oilman’s Charity Invitational Fishing Tournament, MD Anderson Cancer Center, the Houston Food Bank, the Star of Hope Mission, Special Olympics and Citizens for Animal protection.

John married his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Janet Gray, in 1976. Their union was blessed with two sons. John lived his life for his family, and the many friends that quickly became family. He enjoyed traveling, fishing, duck hunting, golfing and cheering on the Houston Astros. John is survived by his wife, Janet Gray Ryan; his sons, John E. Ryan, Jason Ryan and wife Allison; his grandchildren, Nixon, Piper & Zoe; his nephews, Sean Ryan, Alex Ryan & Austin Ryan.

John is preceded in death by his parents, John F. Ryan Jr. and Honorine Laneri Ryan; his sister, Patricia Ryan and his brother, Michael Ryan.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass at Jesuit High School Chapel of the North American Martyrs, 310 S. Solomon St. in New Orleans, on Friday, February 18, 2022 at 6:00PM. A visitation will be held at the Chapel beginning at 4:00PM. The interment will be private.

A funeral service was also held last Friday, February 11, 2022 at Klein Funeral Home in Houston, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, www.stjude.org, MD Anderson Cancer Center, www.mdanderson.org, or a blood donation in John’s name.

To view and sign the guest book, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com