John and Ellen (nee McDonald) were husband and wife. The following is an obituary notice.

THE EXAMINER, MONDAY, JANUARY 2, 1866

DEATH: At Big Cape, on the 17th ultimo, Mr. John Ryan, senior, aged 82 years. Deceased emigrated to this Island from Kilkenny, Ireland, in 1815.

His death is deeply lamented by his sorrowing relatives and a large number of friends, who esteemed him for his integrity and upright moral character.