Commodore C. Ryan

Commodore C. Ryan, 100 years young, passed away peacefully into the loving arms of our Lord on the morning of August 23, 2025.

He was born in Panola County, Texas, to Commodore and Erna Ryan. In 1943, he proudly enlisted in the United States Navy and served abroad the USS Prince William as a First-Class Petty Officer Radarman. The Prince William was one of the few Navy vessels to tour both the Pacific and the Atlantic theaters of World War II.

Following his service, Commodore worked as a machinist for the Texas and Pacific Railroad before pursuing higher education through GI Bill.

He married Maxine and they raised three children.

On April 6, 1966, Commodore married his beloved wife, Emma Lou McLain and they shared 47 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures traveling the world. They operated McLain's Truck Stop and the Goodyear Tire store in Monahans, Texas, where they built many lasting friendships.

Commodore had a passion for fishing and hunting, spending many peaceful hours along the banks of the Rio Grande and the Rio Concho, patiently awaiting his next catch. He also had a goal to make it to 100 years old. Surrounded by his family and friends, he celebrated this milestone birthday with great joy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Commodore and Erna Ryan; his beloved wife, Emma Lou; his first wife and mother of his children, Maxine; his brother, Clyde Ryan; his grandson Chad McLain Wuensche; Darin Ryan; and daughter-in-law, Lola McLain.

He is survived by Dana Paul Ryan and wife, Linda, of Lago Vista, Texas; Diane Ryan of Scottsdale, Arizona; Craig Ryan and wife, Yolanda, of Monahans, Texas; Tommy McLain of League City, Texas; Jerry McClain and wife, Jill, of Austin, Texas. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Kimberly Gray, Stacey Busch, Ryan Wuensche, Jenna Gailius, Chelsea Pena, and Christie Garcia; great-grandchildren, Lainey, Kinley, Maggie Gray, Dylan Ryan, Leo Gailius, Ryan and Ethan Cisneros, Bryson and Braelyn Busch, and Anthony and Aaron Pena.

A small viewing will be held Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Harkey Funeral Home Chapel beginning at 9:00 AM; Funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Harkey Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Jeppie Wilson officiating. Burial is to follow at Trinity Memorial Park Cemetery, 6900 US-87, in Big Spring, Texas.

Commodore served his community for years, participating on numerous boards throughout his life, including the Ward County Senior Citizens, He was also recognized for his leadership early on, becoming the youngest Exalted Ruler of the Elks Lodge in Texas in 1956.

He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, proud WW II veteran, a hardworking businessman, and loyal friends whose presence touched the lives of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, family asks that donations are sent to Senior Citizens Center of Monahans TX.