Beth Ryan

Beth Ryan, 56, of Crystal Lake, passed away May 31, 2026, after a short battle with ALS. Born September 13, 1969, and raised in Crystal Lake, Beth carried her hometown close to her heart throughout her life. She will be remembered for the love she gave so freely, the quick wit that could brighten any room, and the steady warmth that made others feel at home in her presence.

Beth graduated from Crystal Lake Central in 1987 and embraced the Tiger spirit throughout her life. A devoted lifelong learner, she earned a bachelor’s degree from Columbia University and a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin—achievements that reflected both her sharp mind and her enduring curiosity.

Beth served as Director of the Johnsburg Library, where her belief in open access to ideas was clear and unwavering. She loved the library system and held a deep devotion to books and reading. In her leadership, she championed the freedom to read and did not believe in book banning, standing firmly for the value of knowledge, community, and thoughtful conversation.

On September 28, 1991, Beth married Bill Ryan. She was a loving wife and a fantastic mother, and her family was the center of her life.

Beth loved to travel and especially enjoyed planning travel for herself and for others, bringing the same attentiveness and creativity to an itinerary that she brought to everything she did. She loved the outdoors, treasured visits to national parks, and found joy in the companionship of her dogs.

Beth will be greatly missed by her husband, Bill; her daughters, Kelly Ryan and Nicki (Collin Williams) Ryan; her mom, Mary Alice O'Hagan; siblings, Jim (Medalit) O'Hagan, Pat (Karen) O'Hagan, Peg O'Hagan; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and in-laws. She was preceded in death by her father, John O'Hagan.

Beth was a colorful person and would want you to wear colorful clothes to her services.

Visitation will be held at Querhammer & Flagg Funeral Home, 500 West Terra Cotta Ave, Crystal Lake, on Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Continued visitation will be held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 1023 McHenry Ave, Crystal Lake, on Friday, June 5, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 am. Burial will follow in Crystal Lake Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Les Turner ALS Foundation at https://lesturnerals.org/