Jennifer "Darby" Dawn (Cook) Ryan

Jennifer D. Ryan, known affectionately as "Darby," passed away on August 27, 2024, in Terre Haute, Indiana. Born on February 20, 1970, in Harvey, Illinois, Jennifer lived a life dedicated to her passion for animals and her loving family.

Jennifer is survived by her husband, James Ryan; daughter, Shannon Ryan; mother, Mary Cook; and sister, Wendy Allen. She was preceded in death by her son, Sean P. Ryan, and father, George R. Cook.

Throughout her life, Jennifer's love for animals was evident in both her personal and professional pursuits. Her journey began with her first job handling and caring for horses, where she showcased her skills by riding side-saddle in Chicago area parades. As a teenager, she competed in dressage, jumping, and Western trick riding, demonstrating her versatility and dedication to equestrianism.

Jennifer's passion for animal care led her to obtain a degree as a Veterinary Technician and become a Certified Master Groomer. Her talent in dog grooming earned her numerous accolades in competitions across the country, and she shared her expertise by teaching grooming classes.

In 2002, Jennifer's entrepreneurial spirit shone through as she started her home pet grooming business. Five years later, in 2007, she realized her dream of opening a storefront shop, "Darby's Doghouse," in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Her commitment to animal welfare extended beyond her business, as she actively contributed to the Kenosha Humane Society by grooming pets prior to adoption and fostering countless kittens.

Jennifer's expertise in pet care reached a wider audience through her monthly column in the Kenosha Action Magazine, where she shared valuable insights on pet care. After relocating to Omaha, Nebraska, she continued her passion with a mobile dog grooming business.

In her retirement years, Jennifer, along with her husband Jim, found joy in raising Bantam Cochin chickens, showcasing her enduring love for animals of all kinds.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jennifer was remembered as a loving wife, mother, daughter, and sister. Her compassion, skill, and dedication to animal welfare left an indelible mark on her community and all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to your local humane society, honoring Jennifer's lifelong commitment to animal care and welfare.

Jennifer D. Ryan's legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to animals will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2024 from 1 pm to 3:30 pm at DeBaun Springhill Chapel with a funeral service starting at 3:30 pm at the funeral home. Online condolences can be made at www.debaunfuneralhomes.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jennifer "Darby" Dawn (Cook) Ryan, please visit our floral store.