Ryan Thomas Fletcher

Ryan Thomas Fletcher, 23, passed away Wednesday, February 25, 2026. He was born February 8, 2003 in Galloway, Ohio. He was a proud 2021 graduate of Hilliard Darby High School. A passionate athlete, he loved football and excelled as a defensive tackle, known for his natural strength and determination. During his years at Hilliard Heritage MS and Darby HS, he was often seen as a leader on the field and proud to have been part of his 8th grade undefeated season. He was kind-hearted and generous, always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. His bright smile and genuine spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Sports brought him immense joy. He was a devoted fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Boston Red Sox, Boston Bruins, Boston Celtics, and Chelsea Football Club. He had a special gift with animals and was truly a “dog whisperer,” finding great happiness in caring for and spending time with dogs. As he grew older, he developed a strong work ethic and pursued a career in the skilled trades, becoming a commercial plumber. Ambitious and forward-thinking, he was saving to purchase his first investment property. He loved the outdoors and cherished time spent with family, especially at reunions riding 4 wheelers and go carts not to mention the annual kickball tournament on slip-and-slides. Fishing was one of his favorite pastimes. Though he didn’t always have much luck with the catch, he enjoyed every minute of it. He spent countless hours in the yard running routes and catching passes and treasured “guy trips” to St. Louis, Milwaukee, and Martinsville for long weekends away. Some of his favorite memories were attending Steelers training camp and Pittsburgh Pirates games with his dad. His first Cincinnati Reds game was especially meaningful, shared on a special mother-and-son trip. In his downtime, he enjoyed playing Madden NFL and FIFA on his PlayStation, combining his love of sports with a little friendly competition. He lived with enthusiasm, loyalty, and heart, leaving behind memories that will be cherished forever. Ryan was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Connie S. Smith; paternal grandfather, Gary Howell; and cherished great-great-aunt, Lois Smittle-Newman. He is survived by his mother, Elizabeth (Gerald) Wood; father, Bill Howell; sister, Alex Howell; maternal grandfather, Forest Smith; paternal grandmother, Joy Howell; aunts, Heather (Todd) Woodall, Becky (Bryan) Stroth, Katie (Brad) Willis, and Mary Dorsey; “uncles”, Bob (Barb) Sanitra and Mark (Sharon) Sanitra; third cousin, Joyce (Gerry Frasher) McDowell; and many other relatives and friends. Funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 5, 2025 at SCHOEDINGER GROVE CITY, 4242 Hoover Rd., Grove City where visitation will follow until 3:00 p.m. Contributions in Ryan’s memory may be made to the Humane Society of Delaware County (https://hsdcohio.org/donate/). Visit www.schoedinger.com to share a special memory or extend condolences.