James Ryan, 95, of Princeton, passed away on Monday, March 7, 2016 at his home.

He was born on October 10, 1920 in Essex, Missouri to Annis and Arthur Ryan.

He lived in Princeton and was formerly a resident of Evansville for 40 years. He worked over 30 years for the Railroad, working for the Southern Railroad, C&EI, L&N and finally for CSX Railroad, where he retired.

He joined the U.S. Army at age 17 serving in WWII and serving overseas for 3 years in Africa and Italy.

He was a member and served as the President 4 times and the Secretary for 25 years of the Eagles #361 in Princeton. He also was in the Eagles State Hall of Fame, Past State President and Zone 4 Director for 23 years. He was a member of the American Legion Post #25 in Princeton, lifetime member of the VFW #1147 & then Ft. Branch VFW #2714, Masonic Lodge in Evansville and the Scottish Rite Valley of Evansville.

He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Virginia M. Ryan of Princeton; 3 daughters, Darlene Miller (Bob, deceased), Susie Ritcheson (Joe) and Debra Clark (Gene); son, Michael Ryan (Brenda); 6 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; and 5 great-great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 11, 2016 at the Colvin Funeral Home in Princeton, officiated by Lt. Michael Metzler. Burial will follow at Maple Hill Cemetery in Princeton.

Visitation will be from 4 until 8p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. There will be an Eagles memorial service at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday. Military Graveside services will be conducted by Retired Military Veterans.