Sarah Keitt

Statement from Speaker of the House Matt Ritter and House Majority Leader Jason Rojas

Today, our hearts are heavy as we mourn the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Representative Kevin Ryan. For more than three decades, Kevin dedicated his life to the people of Montville, Ledyard, and Norwich while wanting the best for all of Connecticut.

Kevin’s service extended far beyond our state’s borders. Through his distinguished leadership with the Council of State Governments, including his past chairmanship, he elevated Connecticut’s voice on the national stage and helped strengthen legislatures across the country.

Here at the Capitol, Kevin was a constant presence with a steady hand on the dais, a trusted mentor, and a loyal friend. His good-natured humor, his warmth, and his unmistakable eastern Connecticut accent filled these halls for more than 30 years. He took great pride in being the only person in the building who pronounced Norwich correctly (‘Naah-tch’). His humorous exchanges with staff and colleagues, as well as the endless supply of Twizzlers, brought joy to long days and reminded us of the humanity at the heart of this work.

The Capitol will feel emptier without him, but the impact he made on his community, on this institution, and on each of us will endure.