Edith Ryle

Edith M. Ryle, age 78, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 16, 2025.

One of the last surviving members of the famed Ryle family, who established the silk industry that earned the City of Paterson its nickname, "Silk City," Edith was born in Paterson to James and Edith (Ryle) McTighe.

A proud graduate of St. Bonaventure High School in Paterson, Edith called Paterson home until her marriage and the blessing of her two sons, Michael and Jeffrey, inspired her to move to Wayne, where she resided for the remainder of her life.

During her sons’ childhood years, Edith’s life revolved around nurturing and caring for them. She always put Michael and Jeffrey’s well-being first, and they credit her with countless important life lessons. They were also the lucky recipients of her culinary talents. Jeffrey especially loved her "Tatties and Mince", a delicious take on shepherd’s pie—while Michael was thrilled whenever she baked her famous red velvet cake. As active members of the Wayne PAL sports teams, her sons benefited from her unrelenting support. Edith participated in countless fundraisers and kept the team fueled with endless supplies of Gatorade and homemade food, earning her the affectionate nickname "Team Mom."

When her sons grew older and became more independent, Edith began working in the administrative office of the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department. She wore her uniform with immense pride and cherished the camaraderie, respect, and friendships she formed during her ten-year career, which spanned from 2000 until her retirement in 2010.

Edith had a boundless love for animals and a heart as compassionate as it was generous. She never met a dog, cat, or even more exotic creatures—like her son’s ferret—that she didn’t adore. Particularly drawn to Old English Sheepdogs, Edith provided a loving home to many of them throughout her life. Her kindness extended to homeless pets as well. Her deep love for animals was something she instilled in her sons, and later in life, she found immense joy in visiting with her beloved "grand dogs."

Edith was a true people person. Her optimistic outlook on life radiated from within, drawing family, friends, and even strangers into her warm, glowing presence. She was deeply involved in various charitable and community efforts, including Sheriff’s events, fundraisers, and political gatherings.

More than anything else, Edith’s greatest joy came from her loving family. The loss of her parents, her brother, her nephew, and other dear family members brought her profound sadness, but her spirit remained strong. The last twelve years of her life were particularly challenging as she endured the effects of dementia and other health concerns, but she remained surrounded by the love of her family.

Edith will be fondly remembered for her many virtues, including her sensitivity, empathy, compassion, nurturing spirit, strong will, and quiet wisdom.

She is survived by her two devoted sons: Michael Findlay of Paterson, and Jeffrey Findlay and his husband, John Miele, of Sussex; her cherished sister-in-law Elena McTighe of Delray Beach, FL; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; and her treasured "grand-dogs." Edith was predeceased by her beloved parents, James and Edith (Ryle) McTighe, her dear brother William J. McTighe, and her dear nephew, William “Billy” McTighe, Jr.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Edith’s name are asked to consider one of the following charitable organizations:

Alzheimer's New Jersey

Attn:  Development Dept.

425 Eagle Rock Avenue, #203

Roseland, NJ 07068

Father John’s Animal House

50 Father Johns Lane

Lafayette Township, NJ 07848