Robert Lawrence Ryan

Robert Lawrence Ryan, 80, known to many simply and affectionately as Bob, passed away peacefully with family by his side on October 14, 2026, at Baptist Reynolds Hospice House in Collierville, Tennessee. He was born on March 29, 1946, in Portsmouth, Virginia, and lived a life marked by devotion to his work, steadfast service, and deep love for those closest to him.

Bob graduated from Deep Creek High School in Chesapeake, Virginia, in 1964. He then served his country proudly in the United States Army, and brought that same discipline and commitment to Atlantic Christian College (now Barton College) in Wilson, North Carolina, where he earned a bachelor's degree in education with a minor in sociology. He went on to teach at Great Bridge High School in Chesapeake and Wilson Christian Academy in Wilson.

His path then turned to medicine and Bob returned to Atlantic Christian to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing, then continued on to Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, where he completed his training as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), a profession that would shape so much of his life.

Beginning his CRNA career briefly at Duke University Hospital, he then moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where he performed anesthesia services for ophthalmologist Dr. Steve Charles. In Helena, Arkansas, Bob started Ryan Anesthesiology, and it was while working at the hospital there, that he met Jo, the woman who would become his wife and partner in life. In August 1988, he moved to Southaven, MS, where he started Southcrest Anesthesia, serving as owner-operator and working closely with his friend and colleague Dr. Lance Whaley, among others for over 15 years at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Desoto. In 2004 he transitioned to Gastro One where he performed anesthesia in Memphis and Southaven until retirement in 2020.

Bob loved his work, and that love never faded. He was known as a legend in his field and was always determined to further his success and knowledge throughout his life. His professional life was not merely a career but a source of pride, purpose, and enduring identity. Alongside that devotion, he also loved animals, a reflection of the gentleness that accompanied his drive and skill.

Above all, Bob’s life was rooted in family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Jo Ellen Ryan, his daughters, Cynthia Leigh Hall and Christa Renee Gattuso, his son Joseph Peyton Everett, wife Libby. His legacy continues in the lives of his grandchildren, Jacob McClaran, Noah McClaran, Kenny Ryan Hall, Jackson Hall, Charlie Gattuso, Caleb Gattuso, Jude Fulton, and Anne Baker Fulton, and in his great-granddaughter, Emma McClaran. The love of his family surrounded him in life and remained with him to the end.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Ed and Florence Ryan; by his sister, Florence Larson; and by his daughter, Jennifer McClaran. Their memory remained part of the story of his life, and he now rests with those who went before him.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 545 E Commerce St, Hernando, Mississippi, followed by the Rosary at 6:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, with a meal immediately following. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, 1663 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, Tennessee.

Bob Ryan will be remembered for the strength of his mind, the steadiness of his hands, the pride he took in his life’s work, and the love he gave to his family. His was a life of service, accomplishment, and lasting impact, and his memory will remain treasured by all who knew and loved him.