“People often ask me, ‘How do you work around death all the time? I couldn’t do that.’ And what I tell them is there’s a sincere gratitude in being able to serve people at the worst hour of their lives. To be soothing, to conduct a funeral service that fits their eyes, it makes the world of difference to me.”

— Roman Ryan, Owner & President, Ryan Funeral Homes

For nearly 90 years, Ryan Funeral Homes has been part of the Madison community, offering care, comfort and guidance to families navigating loss. Our name is more than a business. It is a legacy rooted in trust and relationships through generations.

We know this community because we are part of it. You’ll see us at church, at local events and in the spaces where life happens. And when loss touches your life, we’re honored to be a trusted presence you can count on.

As the needs of our community evolve, we continue to evolve with them.

A New Chapter Begins

For years, we’ve dreamed of expanding our service in a way that meets the growing needs of Madison’s west side. That dream is now a reality with the opening of the Ryan Funeral Home Legacy Center, a space created not only for remembrance but for connection.

This expansion allows us to welcome families who need larger services while maintaining the warmth and compassionate care that define us. As Wisconsin’s largest funeral home, the Legacy Center is a hub for gathering, reflection and community, accommodating services and gatherings from 20 to 200 people.

In addition to funeral services, this space will host receptions, public events, and even serve as a polling location for the community.

Have a Look Inside

What to Expect at the Ryan Legacy Center

The Ryan Funeral Home Legacy Center was created to be a peaceful, welcoming space where families can honor their loved ones in a way that feels personal and meaningful. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a large celebration of life, we offer flexible spaces to meet your needs.

Versatile Rooms: Multiple chapels and gathering areas accommodate services of all sizes

On-site Receptions: Families can gather for meals and memories without having to leave the premises

Comfortable Design: Thoughtful layout and serene atmosphere help create a calming environment

Modern Technology: Audiovisual capabilities are available for livestreaming, tribute videos, and memory sharing

Fully Accessible: The facility is designed to welcome all guests, including those with mobility needs

A Gift to the Community

Are you part of a nonprofit in need of a gathering space? We’d love to help.

The Ryan Funeral Home Legacy Center is proud to offer our event space free of charge to Madison-area nonprofit organizations. Whether you’re hosting a fundraiser, support group, or community gathering, our space is here to support your mission. It is just one more way we’re giving back to a community that has given us so much.

A Legacy of Trust

During life’s hardest moments, familiarity brings comfort. We are proud that many of our team members have served families for decades, providing care with warmth and continuity. When families return to us, they’re met with familiar faces and unwavering support.

That sense of trust extends to how we handle every aspect of care. Unlike funeral homes that transport loved ones off-site for cremation, we provide on-site cremation services at our northside funeral home as we have done for years. This ensures that your loved one stays in our care, every step of the way.

Our services also include cremation, green burial options, and international repatriation to return loved ones to their home countries, each one delivered with the same level of respect and dignity.

A Family Tradition Since 1938

Connie Ryan, the second generation of Ryans in the funeral profession, helped shape the foundation of Ryan Funeral Homes. That spirit of service continues through each generation, with Connie working alongside his son Roman Ryan for many years:

“This is the compassionate care and commitment to community that I learned by working alongside my father, Connie, for the last 34 years.”
— Roman Ryan

And today, the 4th generation leads the way as Roman’s son Casey Ryan has stepped into the role as Operations Director:

“It’s in our blood. It’s all we know. It’s what we were born to do. And I believe it’s my legacy to keep doing this.”

Here When You Need Us Most

As Madison’s only family-owned and operated funeral home, we take seriously the responsibility of being here for families, not just today but for generations to come.

Legacy is not only about the past. It is about how we continue to show up for you now and how we ensure we will be here for your family in the future. Whether you’re planning ahead, navigating a recent loss, or seeking a compassionate space that centers community and care, we are here.

We look forward to welcoming families and neighbors into this new space, ensuring that every service is as meaningful and personal as the lives we honor.

Because when the time comes, you deserve more than a service. You deserve a place of warmth, trust, and love that honors your story.

To schedule a tour or to inquire about nonprofit use of the space, contact Casey Ryan at 608-249-8257.

We look forward to welcoming you.

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