Off the streets and into the Kingdom of God

Ryan attended Ben C. Rain High School and Murphy High School, where he played soccer and football. As a young teenager, he developed a passion for boxing and took classes at a small boxing gym on DIP. To stay in shape, Ryan often sparred at the gym, shadow-boxed, and ran regularly.

While at the Dream Center in Los Angeles, he taught a self-defense boxing class for women who had experienced abuse. Ryan loved running across the Golden Gate Bridge in California, and during his time in San Francisco, he could often be found running the bridge daily.

In addition to his athletic pursuits, Ryan enjoyed cooking and experimenting with new dishes. He worked at several restaurants, and one that was particularly meaningful to him was Farming Hope, which runs a culinary job training program for community members overcoming challenges such as former incarceration or homelessness.

Ryan also dedicated time to helping the homeless. He volunteered to cook and distribute food and supplies countless times, often when he himself did not have a roof over his head. He spoke at events about his own struggles with homelessness and addiction, always willing to help others even when he was struggling himself. He was a reliable listener and offered advice, serving as a rock on the outside while he was crumbling inside.

Ryan had a passion for writing. He always carried a notebook and pen with him to keep a journal of his dreams and thoughts. He regularly posted meaningful and deep poems on his Facebook page, and everyone enjoyed reading them.

Ryan's goal in life was to make the world a better place through his acts of kindness. He loved helping others, and we can honor his memory by assisting those in need, whether through a prayer every morning, volunteering at a shelter, or donating goods.

Let's continue his spirit of love and giving.