OACB Insider

February 26, 2024

In Memoriam: Dr. Terrence "Terry" M. Ryan, former Superintendent and CEO of Cuyahoga DD

Dr. Terrence “Terry” M. Ryan, 73, former Superintendent and CEO of Cuyahoga DD, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Wednesday, February 21.


Dr. Ryan’s career with the agency spanned more than 35 years. Throughout his tenure, Dr. Ryan held pivotal positions, including Assistant Director of Instruction, Director of Children’s Services, and Assistant Superintendent, ultimately taking on the role of Superintendent and CEO in 2002. As a sibling of a person with a disability, he also served on the Ohio SIBS board. His unwavering dedication and commitment shaped every facet of his remarkable work until his retirement in 2013.

Dr. Terrence “Terry” M. Ryan

Dr. Terrence "Terry" Ryan

1950 - 2024

Dr. Ryan championed systemic changes and innovative service models well ahead of the curve. His collaborative spirit extended beyond organizational boundaries, fostering partnerships with providers, community agencies, and county commissioners, contributing significantly to the agency's prosperity.



Upon learning of his passing, Amber Gibbs, Cuyahoga DD Superintendent and CEO, shared a message of remembrance with the many people who knew and worked with Dr. Ryan: “Terry was wonderful to be around - kind to everyone, he always had a funny story or anecdote to share. I was always amazed that he knew the name of every Cuyahoga DD employee and remembered something personal about each of us. He made people around him feel important." she stated. "Most importantly, he genuinely loved the people that we served, developing many friendships with people with DD that would last a lifetime."


Family will receive friends for visitation on Friday, March 1, 2024, from 3:00pm until 7:00pm at Busch Funeral Home, 163 Avon Belden Rd, Avon Lake, OH 44012. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at 10:30am St. Joseph Catholic Church, 32946 Electric Blvd, Avon Lake, OH 44012.

Read Obituary for Terry Ryan

Ohio Association of County Boards of DD

P.O. Box 16310

Columbus, OH 43216

 

www.oacbdd.org  

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