Ryan James Jennings
NORTH YARMOUTH – Ryan James Jennings, 46, of North Yarmouth, passed away unexpectedly on April 1, 2026, while visiting his parents in Jupiter, Fla., surrounded by his loving family. In his final moments, Ryan died a hero, bravely saving his three beloved children from a rip current—an act that reflected the deep love, courage, and selflessness that defined his life.
Ryan was the devoted and cherished husband of Emily Jennings, and a proud and loving father to his three adored children, Jax, Charlie, and Bowie Jennings, all of North Yarmouth and baby Jennings due in the fall of this year. He was a beloved son, brother, nephew, cousin, and a loyal friend to so many whose lives he touched.
He was born on Dec. 8, 1979, in Worcester, Mass., the son of Ernest and Gail (McLaughlin) Toti. Ryan was raised in Longmeadow, Mass., where he attended the Longmeadow school system and formed lifelong friendships. He graduated from Wilbraham & Monson Academy, Class of 1998, and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Conn. Ryan built a successful career and was serving as Senior Vice President at TideSmart Global, where he was respected for his leadership, vision, and dedication.
A true sports enthusiast, Ryan had a lifelong passion for athletics. He played football, wrestling, and lacrosse during his high school and college years, Ryan was all New England Football at Wilbraham Monson Academy as well as placing second in the Nationals for wrestling. Ryan found great joy in coaching his children’s teams, sharing not only his knowledge of the game but also his values of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. He was also an avid golfer and, more recently, had taken on the challenge of running marathons.
In addition to his wife and children, Ryan is survived by his loving parents, Ernest and Gail Toti of Jupiter, Fla., and Ogunquit, Maine; his beloved sister, Kristy McMahan and her husband, Travis, of Tequesta, Fla., his stepsister, Martha Mathews and her husband, Alex, of Hingham, Mass.; and his cherished niece, Rylee McMahan of Florida. He is also survived by his father and mother-in-law, Steve and Katie Woods of Portland; his brother-in-law, Zack Woods of Portland, and his sister-in-law, Cam Woods and her husband Dan Shaw, of Hopewell, N.J. Ryan leaves behind a large extended family, his Aunt Linda, Uncle Gary, Uncle Jimmy, Uncle Mark; his cousins Tami, Kelly and Erin; and many dear friends, who will forever hold him in their hearts.
Ryan’s life was a testament to love, devotion, and quiet heroism. His legacy lives on in the lives of his children and all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Family and friends will gather from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday April 19 at The Woodlands Club, 39 Woods Rd., Falmouth, ME 04105, followed by a Life Celebration which will begin at 4 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ryan’s memory to:
The Ryan James Jennings Athletic Scholarship for Cumberland High School.
This scholarship is to be given to a male or female athlete who exhibits the kindness, generosity and integrity that Ryan did.
Please make checks payable to:
Ryan James Jennings Memorial Scholarship
and mail to:
Byron Keenan Funeral Home
1858 Allen St.
Springfield, MA 01118
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