Early Life and Education of George Ryan: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 2, 2025

Discover the defining moments in the early life of George Ryan. From birth to education, explore key events.

George Ryan was an American politician who served as the 39th Governor of Illinois from 1999 to 2003. A Republican, he also held positions as Illinois Secretary of State and Lieutenant Governor. His career was overshadowed by a later conviction on federal charges including racketeering, bribery, extortion, money laundering, and tax fraud, all related to his time in public office.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

February 24, 1934: George Ryan's Birth

On February 24, 1934, George Homer Ryan was born. He later became the 39th Governor of Illinois.

July 5, 1934: Lura Lynn Lowe's Birth

On July 5, 1934, Lura Lynn Lowe, who later became George Ryan's wife, was born.

1954: Ryan Drafted into U.S. Army

In 1954, Ryan was drafted into the U.S. Army and served a 13-month tour in Korea, working in a base pharmacy.

June 10, 1956: Ryan's Marriage to Lura Lynn Lowe

On June 10, 1956, Ryan married his high school sweetheart, Lura Lynn Lowe, whom he met in an English class.

1968: Ryan Joins Kankakee County Board

In 1968, Ryan began his political career by serving on the Kankakee County Board.

1972: Elected to Illinois House of Representatives

In 1972, Ryan was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives.

1973: End of Ryan's time on the Kankakee County Board

In 1973, Ryan concluded his time on the Kankakee County Board

1990: Sale of Ryan's Pharmacies

In 1990, Ryan sold his family-run chain of pharmacies, which had grown from his father's original two drugstores.

January 5, 2011: Ryan visits dying wife

On January 5, 2011, Ryan was taken from his prison cell in Terre Haute, Indiana, to a hospital in Kankakee to visit his dying wife.

June 27, 2011: Lura Lynn Ryan's Death

On June 27, 2011, Lura Lynn Ryan, George Ryan's wife, passed away.

January 30, 2013: Ryan released to halfway house, then home

On January 30, 2013, Ryan entered a Salvation Army halfway house in Chicago and was released back to his home in Kankakee less than three hours later.