Deborah Heyl Ryan, 88, of Essex, died Dec. 12 at Aaron Manor in Chester. She was a longtime member of St. John’s Church and an active choir member. She was an avid swimmer and a lover of the arts. 

Deborah is survived by her beloved husband Douglas C. Ryan; daughters Deborah Dunsmore and her husband Donald of Mine Hill, New Jersey and Tracy A. Ryan of Honolulu, Hawaii; two grandchildren, Alan Cooper and his wife Karla of Gilford, New Hampshire and Deborah Jane Cooper of Brooklyn, New York; one great-grandson, Kallan Cooper; and her sister Roberta Holton. Deborah was predeceased by Phylis Near.

Memorial services will be announced at a later date. Memorial contributions in Deborah’s name may be made to St. John’s Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 422, Essex, CT 06426. The Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home, Centerbrook, is in charge of arrangements. To share a memory of Deborah or send a condolence to her family visit www.rwwfh.com.