Marilyn Jean Ryan

Marilyn Jean (March) Ryan age 85, of Pleasant Hills, formerly of Elizabeth Boro., passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family, on Wednesday, May 14, 2014. She was born July 2, 1928 in Pittsburgh and was the daughter of the late Horace J. and Marie McDonald Hughes. She was the wife of the late Willard J. Ryan who died June 12, 2005. Marilyn was a Community and Crime reporter for The Daily News for 20 years and also served as Administrative Assistant for the Very Honorable Cyril Wecht during his term as Allegheny County Commissioner. She was the proprietor of the former The Message Bearers gift shop in Pleasant Hills and enjoyed traveling, meeting people, and sampling good food. Marilyn never missed Jeopardy and enjoyed working challenging crossword puzzles. She is survived by sons, Al March of Pleasant Hills and Samuel M. (Pamela) March of Greenock, grandchildren, Jason (Kirsten) March of Fairfax, VA., Jeremy (Kim) March of Bridgewater, VA., Gregory (Kristin) March of Austell, GA., and Jennifer (Steven) Turner of Monroeville, great-grandchildren, Chloe, Abigail, Brody, Ava, and Kelsey and many close friends. She will be sadly missed by her feline companions, Scarlet and Josey Wales. Following her wishes, there will not be visitation. Private family service will be held in the Round Hill Cemetery in Elizabeth Twp., with The Rev. Dr. David Streets, officiating. The family would like to thank Linda and Marty and the staff of Gentiva Hospice for their compassionate care and support which made it possible for Marilyn to remain in her own home. Memorial contributions may be made to Gentiva Hospice at 190 Bilmar Dr. Suite 200, Pittsburgh PA 15205. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. Condolences may be made at www.gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com