Fr. Francis Lee Ryan

Ordained: 1968
Status: Accused

Died: 09/2/2016
Diocese: Diocese of Joliet IL

Removed from St. Edmund in Watseka in 5/2010 after he was accused of sexual abuse on multiple occasions of a boy at Providence High School, about 30-35 years prior. The same man also alleged abuse by Fr. McBrien once at Joliet Catholic High School. On ‘special assignment’ per the 1989 Catholic Directory. Denied the allegation. In summer 2012, the Vatican said Ryan could not be permanently removed. Diocese said he would return to limited ministry, but a week later, on 9/18/2012, his privileges were again withdrawn. Canonical process was still pending in 4/2014. Named in a new lawsuit against Joliet filed on 4/30/2014. Included in 4/2014 on the diocese’s list of credibly accused. Died 9/2/2016. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General’s Report.

Return to main database page. See abbreviations and posting policy. Send corrections.

Our Database of Publicly Accused does not state or imply that individuals facing allegations are guilty of a crime or liable for civil claims. The reports contained in the database are merely allegations. The U.S. legal system presumes that a person accused of or charged with a crime is innocent until proven guilty. Similarly, individuals who may be defendants in civil actions are presumed not to be liable for such claims unless a plaintiff proves otherwise. Admissions of guilt or liability are not typically a part of civil or private settlements. For more information, see our posting policy.