Ryan, Kelly Jacob

Kelly Jacob Ryan, born on October 31, 1998, of Christiansburg, Va., passed away on Sunday, May 31, 2009, at UVA Medical Center. He was 10 years old and in the 4th grade at Christiansburg Elementary School. Kelly was a small soul with a big heart. His kindness and compassion touched many in his short life, and will continue to reach out even after his passing.

He was an active member of Good Shepherd Baptist Church, in Christiansburg, as well as belonging to the Boy Scouts of America where he achieved the rank of Webelo. He loved his church family and his scouting friends. These two groups greatly influenced his life and encouraged and strengthened his faith. He was able to stand up for his beliefs at a very young age. He also enjoyed helping out in his church’s nursery, being a "big brother" to many of the younger children. Kelly played the drums and sang in the church’s children’s choir. He enjoyed spending time camping and fishing with his dad, cooking with his mom, playing games, acting and spending time with his sister. He had a servant’s heart and volunteered for everything he could.

Kelly is survived by his mother, Gwynne; father, Stephen; and sister, Kayleigh, as well as a very large extended family. He will be greatly missed until we are reunited in the arms of God.

The family will receive friends on Friday, June 5, 2009, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. A funeral service will be held 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2009, at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church with the Rev. Matthew Kirkland officiating. Interment to follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens, Christiansburg, Va.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund for any donations has been set up at Good Shepherd Baptist Church, P.O. Box 398, Christiansburg, Va. 24068. The Ryan family is being served by Horne Funeral Service. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.hornefuneralservice.com.