Ned Lamont Orders Connecticut Flags Half-Staff After Legislator’s Death

The passing of State Rep. Kevin Ryan of Ledyard has touched communities across Connecticut. State leaders and residents have shared words of respect and remembrance.

Governor Ned Lamont ordered all state flags to be lowered to half-staff for Ryan’s more than thirty years of service. Ryan’s legacy as a legislator shines through his commitment to public health, labor rights, and his fierce advocacy for towns like Ledyard, Montville, and Norwich.

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A Life of Service to Eastern Connecticut

Kevin Ryan, who passed away Sunday, represented Ledyard, Montville, and Norwich with professionalism, wit, and a lot of empathy. He started his time in office back in 1992 and spent over three decades working to improve the lives of his constituents.

Governor Lamont’s Tribute

Governor Lamont called Ryan a friendly, approachable leader who always made time for people. Lamont said Ryan’s sense of humor was just as memorable as his legislative work.

Colleagues Remember a Trusted Mentor

Ryan’s passing drew heartfelt remarks from colleagues on both sides of the aisle. The General Assembly saw him as a steady hand, someone who helped guide younger legislators through tough policy debates.

State leaders from Hartford to New Haven remembered him for his political work and for the personal connections he built along the way.

From Freshman Legislator to Policy Shaper

Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, who started in the legislature with Ryan in 1992, praised his steadfast advocacy for working families. She pointed out his role in shaping public health and labor legislation that helped towns all over the state.

Warmth, Humor, and a Signature Accent

House Speaker Matt Ritter and Majority Leader Jason Rojas shared memories of Ryan’s warmth and humor. They also smiled about his unmistakable Eastern Connecticut accent, which made him stand out as one of the friendliest members of the Assembly.

Twizzlers in the House

Ryan had a habit of sharing Twizzlers with staff and colleagues in the House chamber. That simple gesture became a symbol of his knack for building camaraderie and keeping spirits up, even during long days in Hartford.

Bipartisan Respect Across the State

House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora offered condolences from the Republican caucus. He noted Ryan’s calm temperament and the respect he earned from both parties.

In a political climate that often feels divided, Ryan stood out for his ability to work with peers from places like Danbury, Meriden, and Waterbury.

A Legacy That Extends Beyond Politics

State officials have encouraged institutions and residents in Connecticut to lower flags to half-staff. From municipal offices in New London to schools in Cheshire, this act serves as a public tribute to a man whose career was shaped by service and kindness.

Remembering State Rep. Kevin Ryan

Kevin Ryan made a real difference in the towns he represented. His work in the legislature reached every part of Connecticut, whether people realized it or not.

He cared deeply about better public health, labor protections, and helping local economies grow. That kind of legacy? It sticks around for future leaders to chase, even if they put their own spin on things.

Service: Over 30 years in the Connecticut General Assembly.
Constituencies: Ledyard, Montville, and Norwich.
Key Issues: Public health, labor reform, and economic development.
Personal Traits: Humor, friendliness, and approachability.
Colleague Relationships: Widely respected on both sides of the aisle.
Community Reach: Positive influence from Hartford to Stamford.
Memorable Traditions: Sharing Twizzlers during sessions.
Flag Tribute: State flags at half-staff until the day of his interment.

Communities from Ledyard to Waterbury are lowering their flags in his honor. It’s a small gesture, but it says a lot about how people felt about him.

Kevin Ryan wasn’t just a legislator. He was a neighbor, a friend, and honestly, the kind of public servant you hope to meet at least once in your life.

Here is the source article for this story: Lamont Directs CT Flags To Half-Staff Following Death of Legislator

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