A Tribute to the Hon. James Ryan, CBE, JP: A Master Builder of the Civil Service and the Brac.

By Lucille Seymour

Today, we mourn the loss of the Honourable James Ryan, CBE, JP. While there is a profound sadness in losing a man of his stature on this earth, we are comforted by the enduring legacy of his service and the indelible mark he left on our hearts and our nation.

Just a few weeks ago, we met at his home.

He greeted us with his characteristic courtesy, his quick wit, and a phenomenal memory that brought the past vividly to life.

He led us in remembering days gone by, remaining jovial and sharp, making absolutely no reference to his own pains or sufferings. Instead, he was jolly; he took photos with us, squeezed our hands, and gave us that ubiquitous smile and gentle farewell. The moments we spent there allowed us to see the true substance of the man—prepared and ready to see the Friend he had worshipped for so long.

Now that he has passed, it is only fitting to expand upon his life in a tribute worthy of his honour.

A Teacher and a Pioneer

James Ryan was a pioneer who rose from our very ranks to take the highest civil service post under the Governor. He served us with a strategic mind, always driven by a desire to see the service improve. In doing so, he shaped the destiny of the civil service in Cayman Brae, perfecting a unique management system of actions and programmes. It is because of his vision that the Brae stands as the only district that bears its own distinct district budget within our parliamentary budget.