Kathleen Anne Ryan, age 72, of Fairfax, VA passed away after a long illness on May 20, 2025.

She was predeceased by her son Gregory Miegel and parents Bill and Joan Ryan.  She is survived by her son Alex Miegel of Fairfax, Virginia and siblings Patty Murphy (Joe) of Villanova, PA, Bart Ryan (Sonja) of Avondale, PA, Joanne Husfelt (Rodney) and John Ryan of Wilmington, DE.  She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and their children who adored her. She was a loving mother and fun-loving sister and aunt, who will be remembered for her wicked sense of humor, compassion and generosity. Her many friends describe her as fiercely loyal and a force of nature.

Kathy is a graduate of St. Elizabeth High School in Wilmington and the University of Delaware with a Bachelor of Science and Nursing. Kathy was passionate about nursing. Her career spanned over 50 years starting with home health care and geriatrics while still in college.  After graduation she began work at The Delaware Division in Wilmington, then transferred to Georgetown Hospital in Washington D.C.  and finally joined Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington D.C. in 1986 where she worked until her death. Her years as a skilled floor nurse included ICU, Med Surg, Emergency and Cardiology where she consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence. In later years she transferred her talents to Case Management Coordination where her dedication and compassion had a lasting impact on numerous patients and their families.  She is described by her co-workers as "a remarkable nurse" and "a wealth of knowledge".

Kathy had many other gifts which she shared. She was a gourmet cook and an amazing hostess, talented decorator, and a classy, stylish dresser. She was an avid reader and contrarian, loved a good debate and wasn't afraid to stand up for her beliefs. She will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved her.

Her family would like to thank Kathy's girlfriends, Barbara Gray, Maureen Cameron, Linda Levine, Patty Sarigianis and Julia Teuscher who supported her tirelessly in Virgina and her niece Bridget Ryan Roche who followed in her footsteps and helped us navigate the world of medicine when Kathy was no longer able.  But the real hero here is her son Alex who selflessly cared for his mom for years.  We all sincerely thank you Alex, from the bottom of our hearts.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Wednesday, June 11th at 11:30 A.M. at her childhood parish, St. John the Beloved Church, 907 Milltown Road, Wilmington, DE.  Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:15 a.m. Burial will be private.