Kathleen Ryan

Kathleen Ryan, born in Dublin, Ireland, to Tipperary parents, was a charming and talented actress who graced both British and Hollywood films from 1947 to 1957. Renowned for her beauty, she was the daughter of Séamus Ryan, a Seanad Éireann member, and Agnes Ryan, both of whom were active Republicans during the Irish War of Independence. The family operated a shop on Parnell Street, which laid the foundation for "The Monument Creameries," expanding to 36 locations. Kathleen grew up in Foxrock, Dublin, alongside her siblings, including notable figures like artist John Ryan and Fr. Vincent Ryan. After marrying Dr. Dermod Devane in a high-profile wedding in 1944, the couple had three children before their marriage was annulled in 1958. Kathleen was famously captured in a portrait by Louis le Brocquy titled "Girl in White," now housed in the Ulster Museum. She passed away in Dublin at the age of 63 and rests alongside her parents in Glasnevin Cemetery.