Family pays tribute to 'cheeky' 110-year-old woman

The family of a woman, who was aged 110, have paid tribute to her.

Theresa Ryan was described by her family as a "cheeky and mischievous" lady who loved to laugh.

Grandson Ross Symons said Mrs Ryan was 110 years old and 319 days old, nearly 111 years old, when she died on 17 April.

"There is a massive void there for us now, but at the same time, we are very proud," said Mr Symons.

He said: "My nan was a remarkable woman who has just done so many things over the years, so many stories, so many memories that have touched so many people.

"Nan was very cheeky, mischievous, loved to laugh and when she giggled - she giggled - and you couldn't stop her."

Mr Symons said she was a "nan to everybody" and spent her life looking after people throughout her career, as well as being a mother to three, a grandmother to four and a great grandmother to one.

"Her motto was to always be kind and help other people," he said.

Mrs Ryan was born on 2 June 1914, shortly before the beginning of World War One, in Malta.

Mr Symons said Mrs Ryan officially died of "old age" at Manor Court care home in Plymouth, where she resided for more than 10 years.

Home manager Arron Dark said Mrs Ryan, known as the "Queen of Manor Court" was sorely missed by past and present staff members who had a "soft spot" for her.

"Her passing is a huge loss to everybody within the service," said Mr Dark.

He said Mrs Ryan was a lady who knew what she wanted and was not afraid to express her opinion.

Mr Dark said she loved to share stories about her history and her photo albums.

"She loved music… and knew every word to all the old songs.

"She will go down in history."

Mrs Ryan received a total of seven cards from the Royal Family, including two from King Charles and Queen Camilla.

Mr Symons said his nan passed with her daughter, his mum, by her side peacefully and with no pain.

"We can't ask for more than that," he said.

As well as Mrs Ryan's secret to a long life involving Quavers and chocolate, he added: "She had a very healthy life, maybe it was down to the Mediterranean diet, who knows."

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