Stanley K. Ryan, 82 of Mt. Auburn passed away on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at 12:18 p.m. at his home in Mt. Auburn. He was born on August 2, 1944, in San Francisco, CA, the son of Elmer and Eva (Porter) Ryan. Stan graduated from Mt. Auburn High School and went on to obtain a bachelor's degree from SIUC. He taught for a short time and quickly realized that farming was his true calling. He married Norma Brown on September 4, 1966, at Zion Chapel Methodist Church in rural Boody, IL.
Stan was a hardworking man who could never just sit and relax in the off season. Over the years he had many side jobs including owning a painting business, selling ice to the community, and driving a truck. In retirement, he owned and operated the Village Fast Stop gas station because he "needed something to do." His community was very important to him and he always found ways to help and serve. He was a member of the Mt. Auburn Picnic Association and served several years on the Mt. Auburn school board. He was also an active member of the Christian County Farm Bureau and past president of the FS board. Stan spent most of his life as a member of Mt. Auburn Church of Christ. He faithfully served on their church board. Later, he became a member of Taylorville Christian Church.
When he wasn't working, Stan enjoyed reading and learning about history. He loved to travel and took every opportunity he could to see new places and experience new things. He also loved spending time with family and friends and never missed an opportunity to get Angelo's pizza.
Above all, Stan was a faithful husband, father, and grandfather; always dependable, always ready to help with a project, always there to help whenever it was needed. His steady presence and love for those around him will be deeply missed.
Stan is survived by his wife of almost 60 years, Norma Ryan of Mt. Auburn, Children: Kimberly Cook of Taylorville, IL; Kraig (Lori) Ryan of Mt. Auburn, IL; Kristin (Daniel) Niebrugge of Decatur, IL; Kyle (Monica) Ryan of Stonington, IL; Grandchildren: Meredith and Natalie Cook; Garrett and Griffin Ryan; Lucy, Annie, Molly and Josie Niebrugge; Sloane, Avery and Wade Ryan; Sisters: Beverly (Ken) Morey of Riverton, IL; and Marcia (Gary) Mickle of Mahomet, IL; Several Nieces and Nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and Son-in-Law: Roscoe Cook.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 9:30-11:00 a.m. at Taylorville Christian Church in Taylorville. Funeral service will begin immediately following the visitation starting at 11:00 a.m. at the church with Pastor James Jones officiating. Burial will be held in Brown Cemetery in rural Decatur, IL.
Memorials may be made to Taylorville Christian Church or Vision Way Christian School.
Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Please sign our online guest book at suttonmemorialhome.com
