Carol Ann Ryan

Carol Ann Ryan (Bzdula), a cherished resident of Dennis, Massachusetts, passed away on August 9, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on January 23, 1947, Carol's life was marked by her dedication to education, family, and community.

Carol began her journey at St. Joseph’s Catholic Central High School in Pittsfield, MA, where she met her lifelong partner, Allan M. Ryan, Jr. They both graduated in 1965. Carol pursued her passion for teaching, graduating from Westfield State Teachers College in 1969, while Allan graduated from UMass Amherst the same year. Carol and Allan were married on September 6, 1969, and soon after moved to Hudson, NH, where Carol taught second grade in Litchfield, NH. They welcomed their son, Robert J. Ryan, on September 25, 1970, in Nashua, NH, and their daughter, Colleen E. Ryan, on August 23, 1973, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

Carol was a known crafter and quilter, and co-owner of the craft store, Silks by Ladybug. Her artistic talents were evident in the headpieces she made for First Communion and the flowers for hairclips during Prom season. Carol also completed the calligraphy for all the First Communion and Confirmation certificates at St. Theresa’s. Summers were spent in Cape Cod, where the Ryan family enjoyed their time in Dennis, eventually making it their primary residence in 2012. Carol found joy in her garden and birdfeeders, especially when hummingbirds visited.

Her community involvement was extensive and impactful. While in Billerica, Carol was an active member and leader in numerous organizations, including the PTA at John F. Kennedy Elementary School, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, Billerica Friends of Music, St. Theresa’s Women’s Club, The Giving Tree Christmas program, Billerica Garden Club, and the St Vincent de Paul Society. She was also an active volunteer at the Cape Cod Cranberry Festival and Our Lady of the Cape Thrift Shop in Brewster.

Carol's personal qualities and legacy are defined by her willingness to volunteer and take on projects. She managed The Giving Tree Christmas program for ten years, transforming it into a significant initiative that brought joy and warmth to many families. She was a constant presence at her children's and grandchildren's sporting events and music shows, always supporting their endeavors. Carol had a talent for making personal crafts, leaving many with a friendly snowman decoration as a reminder of her love for Christmas.

In recent years, Carol faced the challenges of early onset Alzheimer’s, receiving support from the Alzheimer's Family Support Center. In October 2020, she moved to Bridges by EPOCH at Mashpee, where she and Allan received exceptional care and love.

Carol is survived by her husband, Allan M. Ryan, Jr.; her son, Robert J. Ryan, and his wife, Dawn Wegehaupt; her daughter, Colleen E. Ryan; and her grandchildren, Christian Ryan, Kiefer Ryan, and Madison L. Bane. She was predeceased by her parents, Henry Bzdula and Mary Bzdula.

A visitation will be held on August 14, 2025, from 9:30 am to 10:30 am at Doane, Beal & Ames Funeral Home, 729 Route 134, South Dennis, MA. The funeral mass will follow at 11:00 am at Our Lady of the Cape Chruch, 468, Stony Brook Road, Brewster, MA. Burial will take place at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Dennis, MA, at 12:15 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer donations be made in Carol’s honor to the Cape Cod Alzheimer’s Family Support Center. https://www.alzfamilysupport.org/

Carol Ann Ryan will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to her family, her community, and her many passions. She leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and service.