Edward Thomas Ryan Posthumously Comes Out as Gay in His Obituary
Edward Thomas Ryan, who passed away on June 1 at the age of 85, revealed he was gay in his obituary, which was published in the Albany Times Union on June 8. Known within his family and community as a kind and private individual, Ryan decided to use his obituary to share a deeply held secret he had kept throughout his life.
In his self-written obituary, Ryan disclosed, “I must tell you one more thing. I was Gay all my life: thru grade school, thru High School, thru College, thru Life.” He expressed regret for not coming out earlier due to fear of ostracism from family, friends, and co-workers, citing how gay individuals were treated during his lifetime.
Ryan, who served in the New York Guard from 1976 to 2006 and volunteered at the Rensselaer Fire Department for 17 years, had a quarter-century-long relationship with Paul Cavagnaro, who died in 1994. His family, including niece Linda Sargent, had always speculated about his sexuality but never knew for certain.
Ryan’s obituary has resonated globally, attracting attention particularly because of its timing at the start of Pride Month. The story of his long-hidden relationship with Cavagnaro and his posthumous revelation has touched many, emphasizing the challenges he faced as a gay man in a less accepting era.
Ryan’s obituary concluded with traditional acknowledgments, thanking the fire department and healthcare workers who cared for him. He passed away due to heart failure, and his family honored his wish to share his truth with the world.