Dorothy H. Ryan, 95, of Essex, died peacefully on Aug. 9 at Essex Meadows Health Center, where she resided. She was the wife of the late William J. Ryan, who predeceased her in 1988. Dot was born in Stamford on Jan. 8, 1917, daughter of the late William and Emma Hyland. She and Bill raised their three children in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where Dot lived until 2001 when she moved to the Essex Meadows Retirement Community in Essex.

Dorothy was a homemaker with a long-time interest in bridge and golf.  She was an avid cross-stitcher and knitter, and her family continues to enjoy the results of her work.  In the last 10 years, she resumed her passion for playing the piano and often could be found at one of the pianos at Essex Meadows, playing for herself or entertaining others.

Her family recognizes, with heartfelt appreciation, the wonderful staff at Essex Meadows, whom their mother relied upon and cared deeply about.

Dot is survived by three children, Pat and her husband Charlie of Brunswick, Maine, Bill and his wife Joanne of Essex, and Tom and his former wife Malinda of Bainbridge Island, Washington. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Megan, Jud, Jenny, Katie, Joe, and Will and her great-grandson Declan.

Burial will be in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.