Ryan Dickerson

Ryan Zachary Dickerson was born on November 3, 2003 and taken from us far too soon on May 1, 2026. He was a vibrant soul whose light will forever illuminate our hearts. In just 22 years he left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

From a young age, Ryan was a whirlwind of energy and enthusiasm, diving headfirst into every sport he could find. Whether it was soccer and baseball in elementary school, or basketball through high school, he played with a passion that was infectious. His love for adventure extended to wakeboarding, skiing, biking, snowboarding, and dirt biking, making family vacations a thrilling (and injury-prone) affair.

But Ryan was more than just an athlete. He was the kind of friend everyone dreams of having—always ready for a Bro-over, where laughter, card games, and campfires were the order of the day. To the parents who opened their homes to him, thank you for embracing Ryan and making him feel like part of your family. We can only imagine the noise and chaos, but we know he also brought joy and love into your lives.

Travel was another passion of Ryan’s, sparked by his first international trip to London and Paris in 2018, and Italy (his favorite) a few years later. He returned with stories of scootering around Rome, dining in Florence, and sleeping on the bridge to Venice after missing the last bus. His adventures continued with trips to Spain and a return to Italy, where he found peace on the Amalfi Coast. The Path of the Gods and the vibrant villages along the coast were memories he cherished deeply. Cruising along the coasts in Europe and villages on a scooter was a life experience he yearned to have again.

Ryan’s family was his anchor. He leaves behind his parents, Rod and Lisa, and siblings, Hannah and Jacob, along with a vast extended family who loved him dearly. His beloved dog Quincy, his great-grandparents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins were all part of the tapestry of his life.

In high school, Ryan worked at Graeter’s Ice Cream and Donatos Pizza, but it was his job as a concrete carpenter with his Uncle Derek and with CK Group that truly shaped him. Under the guidance of his foremen, Jesse and Don, and of course Uncle Derek, Ryan found pride and camaraderie in his work. He was always so proud of the work he did, often sharing videos and pictures with family and describing them in intricate detail. His colleagues became his second family, expanding his sense of brotherhood and, admittedly, his colorful vocabulary.

Ryan graduated from Gahanna Lincoln High School in 2022, full of energy and ready to step into his future. Like so many young people, he carried struggles that were not always visible, and at times, the weight became too much to bear alone. His story is a reminder that every person carries more than we can see, and every life holds both beauty and complexity.

In remembering Ryan, we honor not only the joy he brought into the world, but also the importance of compassion—for ourselves and for others. If you are struggling, please know that you are not alone. Reaching out is not a weakness, but an act of courage.

Ryan, you were a charismatic and spirited individual who could frustrate and anger teachers, parents, and even friends, but you did it with a charm and smile that was impossible to resist. You will be deeply missed, but your spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved you.

A celebration of Ryan's life will take place on Sunday, May 17th, from 2-5 PM at Lane 57, 5481 Babbitt Rd, New Albany, OH 43054.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a nonprofit organization of your choice that supports individuals living with mental health challenges or addiction.