"Former Waynesburg Pastor Passes Away

Rev. William M. Ryan, aged 85 years, a former pastor of the First Baptist Church of Waynesburg and a graduate of Waynesburg College, died at 7:20 a.m., Wednesday, June 22, at his home in Edgewood, near Pittsburgh.

Rev. Mr. Ryan had completed 50 years in the ministry of the Baptist church. Early in life he attended the West Alexander Academy and later entered Waynesburg College, graduating in the class of 1874. Two years later, in 1876, he was graduated from the Crozer Theological Seminary and immediately afterward assumed the pastorate of the First Baptist church of Waynesburg, serving as pastor here for 12 years, during which time the present Baptist church edifice was erected. He also served as pastor of Baptist churches at Scottdale, McKeesport, Hollidaysburg, New Brighton, Smithfield, Hubbard, Ohio, and Dunbar. He received the honorary degree of doctor of divinity from Waynesburg College.

Rev. Mr. Ryan was born March 7, 1847. He was married in 1876 to Nantie S. Hill, whose death occurred June 17, 1880. To this union were born two children, Gertrude M. and Nantie B. In 1883 he was united in marriage with Elizabeth Ruch [sic Rush], of Beulah, to which union five children were born: Isa Lee, Jesse J., Charles C., Russell R., and Ruth. The following children survive: Mrs. Robert A. Cooke, of Waynesburg; Mrs. George Leopold, of Wilkinsburg; Mrs. William Amend, of Swissvale; Dr. Charles C. Ryan, of Republic; Jesse J. and Russell R. Ryan, at home. He also leaves four grandchildren: William A., Joseph D. and Sarah J. Cooke, and Alan G. Chapin.

The body will be brought to Waynesburg this afternoon for interment in Green Mount cemetery, where short services will be held at 4 o'clock."