Nancy Ryan

Nancy Louise Dykes Ryan, 79, of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2024, surrounded by love. 

Born in Nashville to Albert and Louise Dykes, Nancy was a proud graduate of Hillsboro High School and the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, where she earned a degree in Education. There she met Claude Hunter (Bill) Ryan, Jr., and they were married in 1966. Together, they had two children, Pam and Scott. Bill passed in 1979, which was a great loss, but Nancy remained strong for her family, raising her children with love, grace, and resilience. 

After Bill’s passing, Nancy returned to Nashville, where she embarked on a successful second career in Information Systems with the Metro Water Services Department of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville & Davidson County, retiring after many years of dedicated service. In 2009, Nancy married Steven B. Edwards whom she'd known since elementary school. 

Nancy found joy in the simple pleasures of life: spending time with her family, hosting holiday gatherings, cooking out, and playing bridge. She was an avid reader, enjoyed working on cross-stitch projects, and loved playing Words with Friends. Her friendships meant the world to her, and she cherished her regular lunches, and time spent with dear friends. 

Though Nancy faced many challenges throughout her life, including overcoming battles with breast cancer and throat cancer, she approached each one with a quiet strength and determination that inspired all who knew her. She may not have always seen herself as a fighter, but her courage and resilience were undeniable. 

Nancy leaves behind her two beloved children, Pam Pennington and Scott Ryan (Scott's wife Heather Neeley Ryan); three cherished grandchildren, Kate Pennington, Neeley Ryan, and MaCallan Ryan; her sister, best friend and “partner in crime,” Sally Walker; and her loving husband, Steve Edwards. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Alive Hospice in Nancy’s memory, in honor of the compassionate care they provided. Please enter “pmrp@comcast.net” for the donation email notification. 

Nancy's legacy of love, strength, and kindness will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.