Kelly McQuade Ryan

Kelly McQuade Ryan of Milford, CT passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Wednesday, August 20th, in New Haven following her courageous and inspirational battle against a lengthy illness. She was 43. Kelly was born on April 20, 1982, to Terence and Kacey Ryan (nee Carmer). She was predeceased by her mother and survived by her loving sisters Kensy Ryan and Kyle MacInnis; brother-in-law Rob MacInnis; her precious niece Emma; her aunts and uncles Donna Horning (Dave), Kelly Teller (John), Korey Wheaton (Jack), Kammy Carmer, Pat Ryan, Mary Sue McKenna, Tim Ryan (Valerie), Peter Ryan and Sheila Wilkinson (Tom); and countless cousins and dear friends.

Kelly grew up in Mamaroneck, NY and from an early age established herself as a tremendous athlete and teammate, enabling her to play numerous varsity sports throughout her high school career including basketball, lacrosse and field hockey. Her accolades culminated with her being enshrined into the Mamaroneck High School Hall of Fame. Following high school, Kelly graduated from Sacred Heart University and spent the majority of her professional career in the staffing and recruitment industries.

Kelly’s true gift to this world was her larger-than-life personality, and her ability to connect with everyone she encountered always seemed effortless. Her contagious personality, quick wit, zest for life and the joy and happiness she spread were simply beyond words. Kelly loved the water and her favorite place on earth was the beach. She was an amazing prankster and storyteller and possessed the ability to make everyone around her laugh and forget about life’s stresses. Kelly was the one that everyone looked upon when they were feeling down and needed a laugh, she was the first invite to every social gathering, and her loyalty and dedication to family and friends was remarkable. We often joked that there were not enough hours in the day to keep in constant communication with as many people as Kelly did, yet she always found a way. Even when Kelly was battling her own recent medical challenges her spirit, strength, bravery, huge heart, generosity and caring for others never waned. The world has lost a true angel who will be immensely missed by all who have had the honor and privilege to know and love her. In a nutshell, Kelly simply was everyone’s Hall of Famer!

To honor Kelly, a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 11th, from 12-8 pm at the Penfield Pavilion at Penfield Beach, 323 Fairfield Beach Road, Fairfield, CT.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Kelly’s honor to Yale New Haven Hospital, an institution which was very important to Kelly and where she received tremendous care and love.