Janet Mulvihill-Ryan

Janet Grossman Mulvihill-Ryan, 93, of Camillus, NY, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2025, at The Nottingham, surrounded by her loving family. Born January 2, 1932, in the Town of Onondaga, NY, Jan was the beloved daughter of Martin F and Elizabeth N Grossman. She grew up on Berkeley Drive, attended Ed Smith Elementary, and graduated from Nottingham High School in 1949.

Jan spent her summers at the family’s lake house on the shores of Skaneateles Lake—a property treasured by the Grossmans since 1919. The lake house became the heart of countless family gatherings like the annual Fourth of July celebration. It was at Skaneateles where Jan met the love of her life, Jack Mulvihill, through his brother, Art Jr. They were married in Syracuse, September 20, 1952, at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Together, they built a life in DeWitt, raising five children. In 1983 Jan and Jack moved out to the lake year-round.

Jan had a passion for music, art, boating and animals. A gifted singer, she was a devoted member of Marcellus Chorale, Masterworks Chorale and her church choir, never missing an opportunity to share her voice with others. She was especially known for her tradition of singing “Happy Birthday” to each of her kids and grandkids every year. Andrea Bocelli and Celine Dion stood out as her favorites.

In addition to music, Jan was an accomplished artist and member of the Associated Artists of CNY. In her late 70s, she set out on a heartfelt mission to paint individual portraits for each of her 14 grandchildren—an endeavor she completed with remarkable dedication and speed.

After 46 years of marriage, Jan lost Jack December 7, 1998. Years later, she found love again with John Ryan, whom she married on July 2, 2004, at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church in Skaneateles NY. Affectionately called "Gump,” John brought renewed joy into Jan’s life. Together, they resided on Skaneateles Lake, escaped the winter chill with trips to Florida, and eventually settled in Camillus, NY. Together, they traveled the Country and across the pond to Ireland and France.

Above all, her children and family were her most beloved blessings. Never missing birthdays or an important event, she always showed up with enthusiasm and support.

Jan was predeceased by her husbands, Jack Mulvihill (1998) and John Ryan (2022). She is survived by her five children: Patricia Mulvihill Francescotti of Baldwinsville; John (Priscilla) Mulvihill of DeWitt; Richard Mulvihill of Chittenango; Kevin (Molly) Mulvihill of DeWitt; and Michael Sr. (Gretchen) Mulvihill of DeWitt. She also leaves behind 14 beloved grandchildren: Rebecca (Robert) Spinks; Matthew (Annette) Francescotti; Elizabeth Francescotti; Kathryn (Gary) Fire; Mackensie (Vincent) LaRocca; Mary and Emily; Michael Jr., Ryan and Jack Henry; Sean and Kellen; Dan and Teddy. Her legacy also continues through her five great-grandchildren: Victoria Fire, Ella and Maria Francescotti; Charlie and Johnny Spinks.

Calling hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, February 25, at Burns-Garfield Funeral Home, 3175 E. Genesee St., Syracuse. A funeral Mass will take place at 10:00 am on Wednesday, February 26, at Holy Cross Church, 4112 E. Genesee St., Syracuse. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, DeWitt, NY