Kathy Eileen Ryan (Scharrer)
Kathy Eileen Ryan (Scharrer), 72, of Holden, Missouri, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, at Saint Luke’s Hospice House.
Born on September 13, 1953, in Kansas City, Missouri. Kathy lived a life rooted in love, faith, and unwavering devotion to her family and community.
Kathy was the beloved wife of Roy Dean Ryan, with whom she shared 54 years of marriage. Together they built a life centered around their two daughters: Jennifer Lynn Hansford (Cliff) of Holden, Missouri, and Melissa Ann Paith (Justin) of Peculiar, Missouri.
Kathy’s legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren — Korynn, Cliff Jr., Ashton, Nataley, and Ryan—and her five great-grandchildren: Zaudynn, Evah, Elyse, Tre, and Brayden.
A devoted mother and grandmother, Kathy, spent the early years of her adult life as a stay-at-home mom.
As her daughters grew older, she began working outside the home—first as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), then at the local video store.
Eventually she found her longest and most fulfilling professional role at Flick Seed. Her work ethic and gentle spirit left a lasting impression on those she worked with throughout the years.
Kathy’s heart was always with her family and her church. A lifelong member of Holden United Methodist Church, she gave generously of her time and energy. She taught Sunday school with joy and dedication and was an enthusiastic participant in the church’s annual Harvest Dinner for many years. Her faith was not only something she practiced but something she lived—through acts of kindness, service to others, and a warm smile that welcomed everyone.
She is survived by her beloved husband Roy Dean Ryan of Holden, Missouri; daughters, Jennifer Lynn Hansford (Cliff) of Holden, Missouri, and Melissa Ann Paith (Justin) of Peculiar, Missouri; grandchildren, Korynn, Cliff Jr., Ashton, Nataley, and Ryan—and her five great-grandchildren: Zaudynn, Evah, Elyse, Tre, and Brayden; sister-in-law Cindy Nolting; brother-in-law Jim Bradshaw (Natalie); sisters-in-law Martie Brizendine and Kim Scharrer; as well as many nieces and nephews including Mindi and Chris; Joe; Jim; Scott; Christopher; Dylan and Melinda; Peter; Nicholas; Jed; Desiree; Stacey; and Jonah. Kathy also leaves behind cousins Scherry, Bob, and Rick who were dear to her heart.
Kathy was preceded in death by her parents Hazel and Ashton Scharrer; her siblings Charlie Brizendine, John Scharrer, and Shirley Bryant.
Those who knew Kathy remember her as one of the most selfless and easygoing people they had ever met. She found joy in simple pleasures—spending time with loved ones, caring for her puppy Lilly, teaching children at church—and bringing comfort to all who crossed her path.
May Kathy Eileen Ryan’s memory be a blessing to all who knew her. A Memorial Gathering will be held on October 25, 2025, from 02:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Holden United Methodist Church 605 E. 10th Street Holden, Missouri. Friends and family are invited to gather in remembrance of a woman whose quiet strength and deep love touched so many lives. Come as you are, we hope to have a very relaxed service.
There will be no graveside service or receiving line. We ask that donations be made to the church in Kathy’s name in lieu of flowers.
