I do now know Ryan nor his family. However I was researching some music online and came across a wonderful version of The First Leaves of Autumn which ironically is a beautiful Irish song about loss and bereavement. I think if I were one of his loved ones it would break my heart to listen to it now. Anyway, his song is wonderful and from the comments here he was too. I am deeply sorry for his loss to his parents and his friends. My friend and I will dedicate the song when we play it to him.
Shane O'Neill The Hague Netherlands 

i'm so sorry to ryan's family, i just recently found out about this and it's been bothering me for a couple days now. He was always my favorite neighbor, I grew up with him. He never failed to put a big smile on my face and instantly make me feel better. Forever in my thoughts and prayers.

Ryan, (Blood/Grigor/RyGuy/Superman/Ry-Ry)

Thank you.   Thank you for concentrating, amplifying and harmonizing the love within my family, Our Family.  Because of you, and the graciousness of your lovely mother for bringing you into our lives as a toddler, our nontraditional family of 5 learned how to celebrate, rejoice and embrace the differing facets of our unique personalities.   You taught us how to love more deeply by always reminding us of what we shared, not what could separate us.  When you were with us on our countless adventures and gatherings, our family grew closer.  You were our common denominator; each of us feeling your umbrella of love in your uncanny ability to identify and strengthen the special dynamics in our respective relationship with you.  I witnessed you in quiet awe from a young age honing your aptitude for recognizing and seizing every opportunity to lift people up.  For me, this is your legacy.   Your instincts of love and inclusiveness were in the marrow of your bone and unable to be suppressed - even when you might have wanted to suppress them.  You, my man, had a strong, pure, open heart that fortunately nothing could diminish.  Until my dying breath I will always be grateful for the brilliant shining ray of love you cast upon the world and our family.

Love you and thank you, Ryan.

Cowboy

Ryan.  Little King.  Adeodatus.

How can we eloquently write enough about you?  Words pale.  You are our shining light from God and God's love shined through your beautiful soul through your song, your smile, your laugh, your eyes.  You uplifted others, even when your spirit needed lifting.  You are in my every breath, every thought, every prayer.  You are in my soul.  Forever.

I think of you and I think of Christ's 8 Beatitudes:

Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 
Blessed are the meek: for they shall possess the land. 
Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice: for they shall have their fill.
Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. 
Blessed are the clean of heart: for they shall see God. 
Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called children of God. 
Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

You are each one.  You good boy.  I love you, Ryan.  You were and are so good to me.  I'll miss you forever.

My dear little Ryan, you always were so kind. I loved your gentle laugh and beautiful voice, giving us great joy and enjoyment when ever we met up with you and your Mom. Our beach trips were so much fun, you and your cousins playing, singing, and mischievous games gave so much joy to my heart. I have only fond memories and love for you. You will be in my prayers and thoughts everyday. Keep the door wide open for us! I look forward to our meeting at the heavenly gate, where you greet me with your wide smile, and say, "I've been expecting you, and Christ has your place ready at the banquet table." I love you Ryan! Uncle Patch

It's definitely not easy knowing where to start when I write this, as there is so much to say and no words to describe how important you were to not only to me, but our family.  I want to share my past, most present memories and my future going forward without Ryan...

There are many, and when I think of my entire childhood you are the first friend, cousin, and brother that pops in my head.  Haha we always pushed the limit, in a fun way! Of course I would like to start off with the yearly vacations we would go on, playing ding dong ditch on all the hotel rooms, karaoke nights, throwing hush puppies into the pools, shooting fireworks right outside of our hotel room, and let's not forget "rashy patchy", Haaa!! All we needed was eachother and water to be content and happy. All I remember was days on end swimming in the ocean, grandmas lake, and pools. I'm so happy and thankful knowing we both grew up sharing our childhood memories together, I can't help but smile knowing it.

Moving to the relative present. There of course are hundreds of memories and stories I could write about, but one stands out the most. Sometimes the simplest of moments are the most meaningful. You had just gotten back from Europe a few months ago, and happened to be in NY for a night. I picked you up from the airport and we had the windows rolled down and music blasting. I just remember driving down that highway thinking to myself, "I love that Ryan is here, and this is such a great moment." I had taken in that whole drive just enjoying the company of my sweet sweet cousin. I learned from Uncle Brian's death, to enjoy the simplest of moments with great company, and am so happy I took it in that night.

This is where it gets sad. Going forward without Ryan. It's never going to be easy knowing that life will carry on without you, and one thing I know for sure is it will never be the same. God has meaning to everything, and know that you are in heaven watching over us. Your memory will always carry on with me and am so thankful for that. It's funny, I truly do feel you with me at times even after your death and just know you are there watching over me. I just want you to know how much I love you Ryan.

-Mimz

There is not a day that I don't think of Ryan...so many times throughout the day...so many smiles and so,many tears...

This week I found myself charging up an old long defunct cell phone so I could read texts that Ryan and I shared over his college years...

"Ryan, have fun at school, be pure and stay true to who you are and have a blast... Kick butt... Love Uncle Greg"

" Thanks Uncle Greg I will!..."

"Youth hunt week... Are you going to get out this year... maybe you can do some bowhunting at the cabin with myself Conor and Michael"...

" I would love to. I'm off for a month around Christmas so I would love to come with you guys"

" let's plan on it we will have a blast at our cabin"

"That's awesome, thanks Uncle Greg! Just let me know when"

"Hey Uncle Greg! Thanks so much for the jerky and fun tonight! Hope to see you guys soon. Love and God bless! Ry-guy"

"Thanks for trekking all the way...it wouldn't be a party without you...kick butt at school"!

"I will uncle Greg!"

"At BWWs with Ya and Mikes rooting on your team!"

"Ahhh awesome!!!Miss you guys"

"Greetings from the Rockies"!!!Summit of Copper Mountain"...

And so many more...I loved staying connected to Ryan throughout his life, and few things brought me more pleasure than cheering on Ryan and Conor as they would make beautiful music at the local watering holes around town...or around a campfire...or in our living room...

I remember teaching Ryan his first song on guitar...Neil Diamond...on our living room couch...a decade or more ago...and being amazed to see how quickly he surpassed my playing skills...and that beautiful voice...and face...

Our last weekend together in Milan Italy was so special...I got to spoil the boys, and treat them like we were on the same level...as friends who really adored each others company, footloose and fancy free on the streets of Milan...I felt 22 again...we laughed all weekend till we had tears in our eyes...it was such a gift, like that last camping weekend with Brian that we should really not have taken the time to attend...God is good...

Over 30 years later there is not a day I don't think of my brother Keith and pray for him multiple times a day...along with Brian now...and my Pop...

I will remember my precious "almost son" and pray for him every day for the rest of my life.

I love you Th-Guy

No words can describe the loss, Ryan was a second 
 brother to me we could talk about anything with each other. He was my best friend I will cherish all the vacations we had with each other,and all the good times.  I always felt comfortable around Ryan like no other friend I had. Ryan will always be in my heart and prayers.

De Profundis

Out of the depths I have cried to Thee,
Beside thy grave on ragged knees;
I've wept with every shade of night
My fallen brother's soul take flight!

His life was coarse, his virtue fine,
Through unseen struggle that smile shined;
My time's now marked in beats of pain
Out of these depths til we meet again. 

No solace found in song or prose,
But drop an Ave' and a Rose,
By the grave where his mother weeps,
Tread softly, for my brother sleeps. 

Eternal Love brother. We will see you soon

I miss you more and more everyday my Superman. Thank you for setting such a great example of what it means to be a child of God. You really were the perfect role model in every way. I love you sweet Ry-Guy❤
Love, Rosebud

I remember the first time I met you, Ry. I think it's the one of the first memories I have of my life - I don't often have vivid memories of my life before 5 but this one I can still see clear as day. You were so tiny with dark hair and such beautiful skin. I kept asking your mom about your  umbilical cord because I was fascinated by it! You will always be one of my first memories. I even think you will be my last. Because I know even on the day God calls me that I will have a certain amount of joy knowing that I will finally be reunited with my little brother, my sweet angel, my little Ry-Guy. 
Thank you for the memories you gave me. And though you are not with us on earth know that your spirit will never die. My children and their children will know the name Ryan James and will know what an every day hero you were. I will tell them the stories and all the adventures of our beloved Ryan James... and you will not be just a name to them. You will be a hero, someone they will look up to and want to become more like. As you did for me, Ry. You were a true example of an amazing son, catholic, cousin, and person. 
Not a day will go by that I don't think of you and pray for you. Until we meet again, Ry-Guy. I love you forever.

Colleen and McMahon family My first meeting of Ryan was going to the Celtic Festival in Ault Park 1997. As we boarded the bus 2 year old,  Ryan wanted me to sit with him. He patted me on the knee and smiled at me with his angelic face. I was smitten and i knew he was a very special boy sent by God!    Colleen you have been so generous to allow me into your life and sharing your precious Ryan with me.  I shall never forget our dinners together , walks thru Reading and ice cream at Don's Creamy Whip! Our trip to California in 2008 with Ryan and my nephew Daniel, you getting me a parking ticket in Laguna Beach!  I believe now that God sent Ryan to you to learn special things here on earth.   God has a greater job for him in Heaven that we will not understand until we are there!   I know Ryan forever changed my life for the better and for this I am truly grateful! My heart weighs like a brick in my chest but my faith tells me that we shall overcome as Jesus overcame death! All my love to infinity and beyond1

Ryan was the cutest and sweetest little chubster baby I ever did see.  We all used to fight over who would get to hold him first when Colleen would visit. A sweet, charming, little toddler with that head of curls and deep brown eyes. As the years went on, we got to see Ryan develop into a smart, easy-going, handsome, kind, athletic and talented guy with a fervent love and devotion to his Catholic faith. He always had that guitar in hand and never once turned down my request for Hallelujah--my favorite song he sang.  Collsie- you did an unbelievable job with Ryan. I never such saw a deep, loving friendship between a mother and son. Please know that we will never stop praying for Ryan and you.  You will find comfort in your memories of Ryan, your family and most importantly, your prayers. I love you both so much xoxo

Oh sweet little songbird... 
You deserve Heaven and God's loving embrace. You are in my heart.  ❤

Ryan meant and means more to me than words can express. We lived every day on the same page, and we had an unbelievable friendship that will never truly end. He taught me a lot about myself and what it means to be genuine, loving, and forgiving. His smile was a constant reminder to be happy and spread happiness to everyone we come across. I will love always love Ryan, and I couldn't be more grateful that I'm able to call him my best friend.

Oh Ry-Ry.. it's so hard to believe you aren't here with us anymore. I remember picking you up from school on day and we were driving  home with the sun roof open and signing Beautiful soul by Jesse McCartney and your awesome voice filling the car. You are so loved and so incredibly missed. Watch over your Baby cousins from heaven

I didn't know Ryan, but he is my brother in Christ. My brother died in an automobile accident when he was just a bit older than Ryan. I will be praying for the repose of Ryan's soul & for all of you, his family, during this sad time. May Our Blessed Mother Mary (who knows the sorrow of losing a beloved Child) ask her Son to comfort you & keep your family together. God bless you!

Oh Baby Ryan! What will we do without you O sweet wonderful boy?
We will never stop missing you or loving you.
I know you're watching over your devoted and loving mother.


Ah! that day of tears and mourning,
From the dust of earth returning
Man for judgement must prepare him,
Spare, O God, in mercy spare him.     
Lord, all-pitying, Jesus blest,
Grant them Thine eternal rest. Amen.

.              Dies Irae

Colleen I am sorry for your loss.  I know that words can not take away the emptiness that you are feeling, but I hope that the memories and stories warm your heart to know how special your son was. I had the opportunity to coach and train Ryan.  This kid was full of stories, very insightful and a joy to be around.  I loved our conversation about life, church and music.  His smile was contagious and that laugh, oh that laugh!  My heart is heavy but I thank God for the time I did have with knowing Ryan.  My Prayers and condolences are with you and your family during this difficult time.

I will never forget Ryan. I went to high school with him at St. Xavier. The first time I met him was at a freshman Mixer after one of the football games. After that I wrestled, sang in choir, and played rugby with this guy. He was awesome to be around. Always full of energy and jokes, he could be picked out in any crowd. I remember walking down the hallways at school and Ryan would be standing in the hall singing with some of the guys from the choir. It didn't matter where or when. The world really lost a special person. I laughed a lot with Ryan. There are not many like him.

So sorry for the loss you have experienced. I hope that 1 Thessalonians 4:13,14 brings you comfort in your time of sadness

Dearest Colleen,
While we have no meaningful words that will bring your comfort during this time of loss of your son, please know you have our prayers, support and our tears.  Try to hold on and lean on your faith, family and friends as you enter into the days ahead trying to cope heal from the loss of your son (taken way too soon).  Love you.

Ryan was a very special young man and will be missed by many. Prayers sent for all.

Dearest Colleen & family, in caring, loving and sharing we from the Cincinnati Jazz Hall of Fame and Sorrento's Italian Restaurant want you to know we are here for you.  There are no words that are adequate at this time other than to let you know how much we care about you!  We are among the lucky ones who got to experience the voice of Ryan & the way he could light up a room and a piano bar. Thinking about you especially today!  Love & Prayers... Sue Brown (Wyoming, OH)

Dearest Colleen & family, please know that in caring, loving and sharing we from the Cincinnati Jazz Hall of Fame and Sorrento's Italian Restaurant in Reading, OH are thinking of you especially today.  There are no words other than to say we are here for you as your son could light up a room and a piano bar like no other!  God's Peace Be With You & Yours!  Love, Sue Brown (Wyoming, OH)

   There are some weeks that can literally bring you to your knees and this week has definitely been one of them. My heart is broken.
   We were so very blessed to have known Ryan. He was kind, gentle, full of life, adventurous, talented and had a passion for the Lord. One of my fondest memories is of him playing the guitar as we sat around the campfire on a chilly October night at the Due house laughing, singing worship songs and telling "God" stories. Even then, he was wise beyond his years. A light. A joy.
   Our prayers go out to his family and friends as he is laid to rest on Monday. We pray especially for you, Colleen, as you've lost your only precious son. You have got to be one of the strongest women I know, both in faith and character and are a testament to the man Ryan was. Keep leaning heavily on God, and He will carry you through. (Matthew 5:4)
    Rest easy, Ryan. We love and miss you... 'I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day...' (Timothy 4:7)
    I will pray for you daily, Ryan. Watch over your momma. <3

Colleen and the McMahon clan:  We were so fortunate to get to know Ryan .  He is an incrediable young man with a strong faith in God, Jesus, Our Blessed Mother Mary.  And also in Family.  He is now up in Heaven with Brian giving us here strength and conviction to carry on God and Christ's work to bring on the true message.  God rest his Soul.  Brian...take care of him or I will come to get you!  May God, Jesus and Our Blessed Mother Mary bring comfort to you and your family.  With all our Love, ...Tony and Julie Wagner

Dear Colleen,
This past Wednesday I was listening to the news when I heard Ryan's name.  All I could say was "no, no, no"and I remember hoping it was a different Ryan Greenwell.  

I had Ryan in music class at CHCA when he was in 3rd-4th grade. He was the kind of student you don't forget! He had a beautiful voice, but was also loving and kind with a heart of gold. I am so grateful to have been blessed to know him and am honored to have been part of his journey.  Sweet Ryan is now singing in the greatest angel choir of all!  My prayers are with you and your family,

Dear Colleen, Please accept our deepest sympathy.  Our son Bobby played basketball with Ryan at CHCA and we were so sad to hear of the loss of Ryan.  Ryan was such a sweet boy and from all we have heard he grew up into a wonderful young man.  We will be praying for your family.

May God keep you all tenderly tucked in His Merciful Heart during this most dark and trying time. Words cannot properly express my sincere sorrow for you all. This is a very heavy cross. Ryan and all his family are in my daily Rosary. 

+++Requiescat In Pace Ryan+++

My heart is aching for the Greenwell family.  I didn't have the opportunity to know Ryan, however my son just pledged his fraternity  at U.K.  My son  is also an Engineering major.  No words .
You are in our prayers

I had the privilege of teaching Ryan when he first came to CHCA.  He had a smile that brightened the room.  Colleen, I am so touched by your interview on the news last night.  The way you spoke of Ryan and of your faith in our Heavenly Father will leave an impact on many lives.  My thoughts and prayers are with Ryan's family and friends.

Dear Colleen, I am praying God gives you strength and comfort. You have been the most incredible mother and it showed in what a wonderful young man Ryan become. I know he will be watching over you and taking care of you from heaven.

He was God's Sweet Angel on earth and will be missed by all   May Our Lord welcome him to look over us with his Uncle Brian.  Until we meet again....

Our deepest love and prayers

If we have not loved there would be no tears.  God continue to bless you in your pain  Ryan and Brian together!!             JoJo & Nick

Dearest Jim,
Please accept our deepest sympathy.  Our prayers are with you at this time of tremendous loss.

So sorry for your loss. May you find comfort and strenght in God's promise found at John 6:40

There are no words to express our sorrow and none that can console you in this terrible time of grief.  You were blessed with a fine son.  Although we never met Ryan, I can tell that he was a man of great faith and character.  I can see that all those who knew him were truly blessed to have him as a friend. We are praying for Ryan and all of you in this difficult time.  We are praying for the repose of his soul and for his everlasting life in Heaven with the Father.

 Dear Colleen,

 You are a great mother. God will be with you.  I wish that I could console you. 

All my love to you and Ryan.

Our Hearts are broken to hear from Sr. Margaret McMahon of the tragic news of your beloved son's passing.  Ryan looks so handsome, so promising, so engaged in life.  It is almost unspeakable of how such a loss could be set upon  Ryan's loving parents Colleen and James, and family.  Our prayers are with you, and our deepest sympathy.  I had such a lovely visit with Sr. Margie in her new assisted living on Monday at Sacred Heart Convent on Long Island where she ran the reading center, and I voulunteered with my beloved mother some fifty years ago. When we spoke Wednesday night upon our return to Cape Cod, Sr. Margie could hardly breathe at the very sad news of your loss. PLease know our prayers are with you all. God Bless Ryan from Drs. Joan and Jean-Paul Aucoin, Charles Tacke, Aimee-Rose and Christopher Taffee, and our grand-baby Brody, if he could understand, would reach out his arms to hug you all.

May his memory be eternal! He and all the family members are in my prayers.

Oh,Colleen !
I am so sorry for this tragic loss to  you.
RIP dear Ryan
He will song with the angels

The CHCA community grieves the loss of Ryan, a thoughtful, kind, talented young man who spent many summers with the stage struck theater group sharing his talents and friendship. Our prayers are with the family and his friends from St. X and UK as they grieve his passing.

My heart is breaking for Ryan's family.  thoughts and prayers be with you during this difficult time.

gone way too soon Ryan. may God greet you with open arms, our loss is heavens beautiful gain. Love you, from all your Irish family xoxo 

Our hearts are with the family, thank you for sharing Ryan with all of us. He will always be remembered for being such a wonderful young man... the best!

OBITUARY

Ryan James Greenwell

July 19, 1995 – September 20, 2017

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