Gerald Vincent Ryan Jr.

Gerald V. Ryan, Jr. (Jerry) passed away peacefully on Thursday October 30, 2025 in Petaluma, CA at the age of 93. A proud native of “The City,” Jerry was born in San Francisco on February 18, 1932. He grew up in the Sunset District and was a proud graduate of Sacred Heart High School and San Francisco State University. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald V. and Aliece M. Ryan and his beloved sister, Maryanne G. Ryan (Pal). Jerry had a successful career with Pacific Telephone and Telegraph/AT&T in San Francisco where he met the love of his life, his wife, Eileen Minnihan. The couple were married for 65 years. His most gratifying professional accomplishment was the work he contributed to the installation of the phone system for the Transamerica Pyramid. Jerry dutifully served in the US Army, 1955-1957.

In addition to his wife Eileen, Jerry is survived by his loving children: Mary C. Ryan, Jerry (Renee) Ryan, Teresa (Kelly) Bradley and Joannie Ryan. Jerry was the beloved grandfather of Patrick (Kate) Bradley, Matthew (Brieana) Bradley and Christopher Ryan. Jerry’s later years were blessed with the arrival of his great grandbabies, Benjamin Ryan Bradley, and Mason Thomas Bradley. His great granddaughter, Baby Girl Bradley, will arrive in January 2026.

In 1970 Jerry and Eileen moved to Petaluma, CA to raise their family. The couple were active members of St. Vincent’s Parish and provided their children with a wonderful education by sending them to both its grammar school and high school. Jerry was a family man who attended every sporting event of his children, both near and far, often transporting half their teammates in his green Ford Country Sedan station wagon. He was an avid gardener who loved his roses and his meticulously maintained lawns, the greenest for blocks around. He enjoyed road trips with his family, especially to Iowa to visit with Eileen’s relatives, forming special bonds with his mother-in-law, Gladys Minnihan, and his brothers and sisters in law.

Jerry grew up playing sports, including football at SH, swims in the Bay to the Golden Gate Bridge and back, and in Fleishhacker Pool. He was a devoted baseball fan, and he made many happy memories with his family cheering on the SF Giants at both “The Stick” and Oracle Park. The Cal Bears held a special place in his heart as he ushered many football games at Memorial Stadium and both his sister Maryanne and grandson Christopher graduated from the university. He had a passion for the ponies which he enjoyed at the local joints; Bay Meadows, Golden

Gate Fields, and the Santa Rosa Fair. A trip of a lifetime took him to see the thoroughbreds at Churchill Downs, but his favorite track was Santa Anita.

In retirement Jerry assisted Eileen with the care of his grandsons who brought him endless smiles and stories. He was a long-time volunteer with the St Vincent de Paul Society helping those in need. Up to his last days his Irish eyes smiled when he enjoyed his 5:30pm highball with Eileen. Jerry’s long life was marked with deep appreciation for the simple pleasures of life. In his memory enjoy a delicious meal with your family and friends and raise a glass to Jerry/Dad/Bud, for a life well lived. Rest in Peace.

A funeral mass and celebration of life will be announced at a future date.