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Zach Ryan, 24, has died after a sudden illness in Dublin, leaving family and friends mourning a young man remembered for his warmth and community work. Relatives say his empathy and smile made a lasting impression on those he supported and loved.
Funeral at Clontarf recalls compassion and energy
The funeral mass took place at the Church of St John the Baptist in Clontarf, where relatives and friends gathered to celebrate Zach’s life. His father, Ronan Ryan, spoke of a son who loved sport, read widely and showed a strong commitment to helping others.
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Andrea Chard, Zach’s mother, was represented by a friend at the service. She paid tribute to him as her closest companion, praising his kindness and recalling the family’s affectionate ways of expressing love.
Work with Dublin Simon highlighted
Zach had been involved with the outreach team at the Dublin Simon Community since finishing college. At the funeral Ronan described his son as a humanitarian who brought hope to the people he worked with.
His aunt Sinead posted a series of photographs and a message remembering how Zach devoted himself to others. She said his generosity of spirit and his smile would remain with the family.
Family background and public condolences
Zach was the son of restaurateur Ronan Ryan from a previous relationship. Ronan and his wife, former TV presenter Pamela Flood, who joined the family when Zach was six, have expressed their devastation. Ronan is also father to Harrison, Elsie and Gracie, whom he shares with Pamela.
The notice on RIP.ie said Zach died unexpectedly but peacefully, surrounded by love and while in the care of staff at Beaumont Hospital.
Messages of sympathy appeared on social media after the funeral. Singer Una Healy offered her condolences, and others paid tribute to Zach’s warmth and the memories shared by his family.
How to honour his memory
In place of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Dublin Simon Community Outreach Service, an organisation close to Zach’s heart.
