James F. “Coach Jim Ryan” Ryan, 66, of Windsor Locks entered into Eternal Rest on Tuesday, December 12, 2017, at St. Francis Hospital after a lengthy illness. Jim was born December 1, 1951, in Hartford, CT the son of the late Russell Sr. and Mary Ellen (Gleason) Ryan. He proudly served in the United States Air Force. Coach Ryan as he was affectionately known to many in Windsor Locks and surrounding towns was a well respected football coach for over 44 years. Coach Jim and Coach Ken Smith brought organized football to Windsor Locks by forming the Pequot Football League and Jets Youth Football in the 1970’s. The love of football was passed on from his father Russell. Jim coached at both the Windsor Locks High School and Windsor High Schools and formed the WLHS Freshman Football team under former Head Coach Pat Sczelza. Coach Ryan not only had great success on the field by coaching seven youth championships, 3 undefeated seasons and a special team in 2000 who won a championship who was never scored upon, but he provided a safe place to go and keep busy and stay out of trouble. He was a dedicated Coach rarely missing a game, scrimmage or practice even with failing health. For the past 23 years Coach Ryan gave out the Ryan Award at the end of the season in memory of his father who was a center and defensive safety and All American at the American School for the Deaf. He is survived by his two brothers, Donald Ryan and his wife, Joanne of Milford and Russell M. Ryan, II of Windsor Locks; a niece and 2 nephews, Jessica Burn and husband, Gray, Shawn Ryan and wife, Rachael, and John Russell Ryan; 2 great-nieces and a great-nephew, Isla, Braeden and Madelyn. Relatives and friends are welcome to join the family during visiting hours on Friday, December 15, 2017, from 4 pm to 7 pm at the Windsor Locks Funeral Home, 441 Spring St., Windsor Locks followed by a funeral service at 7 pm at the funeral home. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions in memory of Jim may be made the American School for the Deaf, 139 North Main Street, West Hartford, CT 06107. For online expressions of sympathy or directions please visit www.windsorlocksfuneralhome.com