Kerry Lynn Ryan

Kerry “Toby” Ryan passed away in peace at her home in Raymond, NE on Sunday, November 8^th, 2020. She was surrounded by her loving family and her dog Jake, who never left her side. Toby was born on July 15^th, 1960, in Pawnee City, NE to Gayle and Pauline Eckman.

Toby loved the holidays. Christmas was an important time of year that she made magical for others as it was another opportunity for her to celebrate family. Toby also loved pink flamingos and Harleys. She enjoyed riding motorcycles and adventuring with Mark and her friends.  She was honest, a dedicated worker, loyal, and could give it to you straight but share a laugh the next moment. She welcomed any and everyone into her home. While everyone could attest to how tough she was, only those who experienced her tender and comforting side truly understood where that fire and strength came from. It was clear to see through the grit that she was so much more than just tough.

Toby spent her last few days at her paradise in Raymond, which her and her partner, Mark Homes, built together. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Jeffry Eckman. She is survived by her brothers Scott(Kim) Eckman, Stacy(Bev) Maughan, Mark(Candace) Eckman, Bob(Mari) Eckman, and sisters Linda Maughan-Hager, Lisa(Tony) Rughe, Irene Eckman, Daisymae(Mark) Eckman-Brayton, her children Nicholas(Tosca) Ryan, Jessica Ryan, Amanda(Paul) Schmid, Zach(Shanna) Homes, and many grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who she adored.

A special thank you to her other family, the Lincoln Police Department, where she built a 20 year career. Their efforts and show of support over the last several weeks warmed her heart, put a smile on her face, and provided us moments of beauty during such a difficult time.

The degree to which Toby touched people’s lives is hard to put into words. She will be deeply missed by so many who could count on her and appreciated her. There is a hole in the world now that she’s not in it, but the unmeasurable impact she made will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers donations will go to Santa Cop (or if you insist on flowers, please buy them from Oak Creek Florist).

Checks can be made out to Santa Cop; LPD, 575 S 10^th ST. Lincoln, NE 68508. Attn: Brianna Walters. Add “Toby” to your memo line

Please join us for a gravesite service at the Pawnee City cemetery at 10:30 am on Saturday November 14th, 2020. Due to covid-19, masks and social distancing is required.

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