Obituary for Charles Ryan

Charles Alvin Ryan

May 31, 1936 — January 5, 2024

Charles (Charlie) went to his eternal home Friday, January 5, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was 87 years young.

Born to Nan Marie (Harmon) and Roy Alvin Ryan, May 31, 1936, in Wynona, Oklahoma. He spent his early years around that area of the state. Charlie was joined by sisters, Louise (Corbin) and Janice (McClelland), and brother Jack. The family moved to Ponca City when Charles was in the 5th grade. At the age of 14, he went to work at Leonard’s Grocery. He worked hard and became a Butcher during his many years with the Leonard families.

Charlie graduated from Ponca City High School in 1954. In October of 1958, Charlie married Ann Christy. They raised three daughters and many other children in their home. Charlie and Ann were married 65 years. They bought the Taco Hut in 1971, and with their family and friends ran it for many years. Charlie was in the restaurant business the rest of his career, managing McDonalds, Western Sizzlin’, Golden Corral, and Head Country BBQ (now Danny’s BBQ Headquarters).

Preceding him in death were his parents, his brother Jack and sister Janice. Charlie is survived by his wife, Ann, of the home; sister Louise Corbin, of Ponca City; daughters Leigh Ann Ryan and Dr. Lori Ryan-Elliott, of Ponca City, and Lyna Ryan Snow, of Beaumont, TX.; 6 grandchildren, Andy Elliott (Savanah), Ashleigh Rutherford (Chris), of Ponca City, Juliaunna Ryan, of Sacramento, CA, Jayden Ryan, of Ponca City, Ryan Snow of Shawnee, KS, and Reagen Snow of Hutchinson, KS. In addition to those named, he is survived by 6 great-grandchildren, many others who called him Papa, and numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Charlie was kind, caring, compassionate, and generous with his time and hugs. He touched many lives through work and life in general, both as an employer, and through friendships built from positive and meaningful relationships. He was a man not only to look up to, but to learn from and emulate.

Please join us as we celebrate and honor the life of Charlie Ryan on Friday, January 12, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at Albright United Methodist Church, 128 S. Palm, in Ponca City. A family dinner will begin at 11 a.m. at the church. To honor Charlie, please give your time or donate to Albright UMC or a charity of your choice.