James Chester Ryan

James Chester Ryan “Duffy”, age 67 of Marshalltown passed away March 5, 2024, at Digby General Hospital after a long battle with cancer. He was the son of James C. Ryan and Marjorie Marie “Dolly” Thibault. Growing up in Marshalltown and the south end of town, he was raised by Joseph Albert (Duffy) Smith.

Duffy was a very generous, loving man who was always willing to help wherever needed. He was a member of the Fish Harvesters of N.S. and a longtime member of the Digby Legion, where he spent many hours socializing with friends, playing pool and cards. Much of his life was spent on the water, scallop fishing. One of the youngest men to captain a scallop boat, he was “highliner” for many years. If he wasn’t talking on the phone with fellow fisherman, he was on the wharf or in the parking lot talking to them about their plans for the next trip. In his later years, he enjoyed spending time driving around the back roads with his friends or sharing a drink at “the Palace”.

Duffy is survived by spouse, Heather Hadley, daughter, Alanna Andrews and son, Jamie Andrews, grandchildren James and Lily Andrews. Sisters Juanita Comeau, Sackville NS, Judy Robichaud, New Market, ON, Jane Theriault(Albert), Meteghan NS and brother Harley Ryan, Weymouth NS. He was predeceased by daughter, Margaret Ryan (stillborn), sisters Mary Lucy Ryan, Muriel Robottom, Rose Anne Ransbarry and Myrna Ryan, brothers, Nelson and Joe Ryan.

A graveyard service with family and friends will be held at Madonna Cemetery, Marshalltown in the summer. Donations in Duffy’s memory can be made to IWK or VON.