Longtime Twin Ports Radio DJ Jeanne Ryan Dies

DULUTH, Minn. — There are heavy hearts within the Twin Ports radio community.  Jeanne Ryan, longtime radio personality of more than 20 years, died Thursday.

Jeanne was best known for her silly sense of humor and that rich, one-of-a-kind voice.

Jeanne started her radio career in the Duluth-Superior market in 2000 when she joined 92.1 The Beat. But Jeanne’s most recent and most rewarding time on the airwaves was at Duluth’s Mix 108 where she led the No. 1 hit music station in the mornings for 15 years.

Jeanne retired from radio earlier this year after she was let go from the station because of budget cuts.

Her step-daughter, Briana De Smet, released the following statement to FOX 21:

“Jeanne was truly one-of-a-kind. There are no words to express the love we have for her. The sweetest soul, with the kindest heart. We are forever thankful for her, and the wisdom she’s given us over the years,” De Smet said.

Mary Neimeyer, Jeanne

Mary Niemeyer, who was Jeanne’s boss at Mix 108 and also her friend from college, said Jeanne was a star.

“Jeanne truly touched so many through her on air work, her community service and her warm engaging presence.  Jeanne’s legacy will live on through the memories we shared with her and the lasting impact she had on the community. Forever an icon,” Niemeyer said.

On Monday, Dec. 18, Mix 108 will pay special tribute to Jeanne on the radio from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m.

Jeanne died of natural causes, according to the family. Funeral arrangements were pending Thursday.  She was 59 years old.