Sharon Lynn Ryan

Sharon Lynn Ryan passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, in Santa Clarita, California, at the age of 82. Born in Illinois to Veronica Werthmann Ryan and Scott Ryan, Sharon was one of eight siblings raised in a spirited and resilient household. She is preceded in death by Gerard “Gerry” Ryan, Robert Ryan, Colleen Ryan, Neoline “Pat” Ryan Wyman, Rita Ryan Streetz, and Curtis W. Ryan, and is survived by her sister, Janet Ryan.

A lifelong advocate for education, Sharon earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. Her career as a flight attendant with American Airlines spanned over 35 years, taking her across the globe and connecting her with people and cultures that enriched her worldview. She retired just two years ago, still full of energy and grace.

Sharon also pursued her passion for the arts as a proud member of SAG-AFTRA. She attended film industry workshops and earned roles in numerous film and television productions, including Lethal Weapon 3, Alien Nation, The Bodyguard, Beverly Hills Cop III, L.A. Law, Highway to Heaven, Judging Amy, and a variety of commercials.

Deeply religious, Sharon found comfort and strength in her Catholic faith. She attended services regularly—often twice a day—and prayed the rosary faithfully, grounding her life in devotion and reflection.

As a child, Sharon spent cherished time at the Iowa farm of her aunt Marg and uncle Oz, Margaretta (Werthmann) Steinmann and Oswald Steinmann. Their quiet strength and rural grace shaped her deeply. It was there, among the fields and stables, that her lifelong bond with horses first took root—a connection that remained a source of peace and purpose throughout her life. She remained close to their adopted daughter, Brenda Newkirk, until Brenda’s passing in 2014.

Sharon embraced the rhythm of a working farm and was a skilled horseback rider. In earlier years, she spent countless hours with her beloved Standardbred horse, Jose; bred Irish setter dogs; and more recently, began breeding Goldendoodles. She recently sold her farmette and purchased a home with a small pool to enjoy her passion for swimming.

She is survived by her son, Jay W. Akely; daughter, Shelle A. Young; two grandchildren, Benjamin Akely and Brennen Akely; and her four dogs. She cherished her friends, including Karen Fuoco Neuhausen, whom she knew for nearly 60 years. As one of eight siblings, Sharon is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and their children—each of whom carries forward her legacy of love, resilience, and grace.

Please join us in honoring her memory on Friday, August 29, 2025. The day will begin with the recitation of the Rosary at 10:30 a.m., followed by a Mass in her honor at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Church, located at 22508 Copperhill Dr., Santa Clarita, CA.

Immediately following the service, a blessing of the grounds will take place at Oakwood Memorial Park, 22601 Lassen St., Chatsworth, CA 91311.