Sudden death of Nenagh shop owner a century ago recalled

From our rich store of Archives dating back from The Guardian's foundation in 1838 comes this report of the sudden death of one of the proprietors of Ryan & Harty's Shop in Kenyon Street, Nenagh, a century ago this month, January 1925........

The death of Mr William Ryan, of Messrs. Ryan & Harty, drapers, Kenyon Street, Nenagh, which occurred rather unexpectedly on Thursday, came as a shock to all who knew him. One of the most successful businessmen in the town and a member of a well-known and widely connected Templederry family, the late Mr Ryan was a popular resident in Nenagh for many years, during which he enjoyed the highest respect and esteem for his integrity and straightforward business dealings, and for the cordial and kindly manner which marked his private life.

He was apparently in his usual good health and spirits during Christmas and was about as usual on Monday. Later in the week he complained of illness and remained in bed on Thursday, but did not appear to be suffering from more than a passing indisposition. On Thursday about 4pm, when Mr Moylan, foreman of the business, went to Mr Ryan’s room, he found him apparently unconscious, and on arrival of the priest and doctor in a short time it was found that Mr Ryan had passed beyond human aid.

Deceased was son of the late Michael Ryan of Oatfield, Templederry, and brother of Rev Father Ryan, Mr J. Ryan, Silver Street, Michael Ryan, Oatfield, Dan Ryan, Glenaguile, and Jeremiah Ryan Killavalla, Mrs Dwyer, Currabaha, and Mrs Moloney, Loughisle.

Dr A. D. Courtney, deputy coroner, held an inquest on Friday morning. Deceased was aged 58 and was unmarried.

Dr W. Courtney said there were no marks on the body and death was probably caused by heart disease - fatty degeneration.

The jury brought in a verdict of death from natural causes.