Holly MatkinRogersville, TN – Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) Lieutenant Timothy “Tim” Ryan died unexpectedly on May 6.
The 55-year-old lieutenant passed away after suffering an “off-duty medical episode,” the THP said in a Facebook post later that day.
His exact cause of death was not released.
“Please pray for peace and comfort for his family,” the agency’s post read.
The longtime lawman planned to retire from his 30-year law enforcement career in June, according to his obituary.
Lt. Ryan graduated from East Tennessee State University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in 1991.
He joined the THP on Jan. 2, 1994, and served as a Fall Branch District trooper until he transferred to the agency’s Criminal Investigation Division (CID) in 2003.
While working in the CID, Lt. Ryan spent time as a special agent sergeant specializing in auto theft and odometer fraud investigations.
In 2010, he was promoted to assistant special agent-in-charge of CID Region 1.
“Tim’s relationships with other law enforcement leaders in the area and his community-involvement initiatives made his Region one of the most effective in the state,” his obituary read.
Lt. Ryan attended the FBI National Academy in 2012.
He leaves behind his wife, Susan, as well as his children, Leah and Colin.
Lt. Ryan is also survived by his siblings, nephews, nieces, and many friends.
He was laid to rest on May 10.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Tennessee Highway Patrol Lieutenant Timothy “Tim” Ryan, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
