It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ryan Scott Heath, who left us peacefully at home on May 6, 2025. Ryan, a resident of Algood, Tennessee, was known for his remarkable creativity, perseverance, and unwavering loyalty. Throughout his life, Ryan touched the hearts of many with his kindness, generosity, and selfless dedication to helping those in need. His memory will live on in the lives of all those who had the privilege of knowing him, and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the broader community.
Ryan’s life was marked by a passion for creativity and a drive to make the world a better place. He had a unique ability to approach challenges with an open mind, always finding innovative solutions that reflected his deep understanding of the people around him. Whether through his work, his personal relationships, or his volunteer efforts, Ryan made an indelible impact on the lives of others. His creative spirit and perseverance were qualities that defined him and left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
In addition to his creative talents, Ryan was known for his loyalty and his commitment to the people he loved. His relationships with family and friends were always built on a foundation of trust, respect, and mutual support. Ryan was the type of person who could always be counted on, whether you needed someone to lean on during tough times or someone to celebrate with during moments of joy. His loyalty was unmatched, and those who knew him often spoke of his ability to make everyone feel valued and appreciated.
Ryan’s mother, Beverly, and his brother, Andrew, were his closest family members and held a special place in his heart. As a son and brother, Ryan was devoted to his family, always looking for ways to help and support them in any way he could. The bond he shared with his mother and brother was a deep and lasting one, and their love for him was evident in every interaction. Ryan’s passing has left a hole in their lives that will never be filled, but they take comfort in the memories of the time they spent together and the love they shared.
Ryan’s passing has also left a significant void in the lives of his many friends and colleagues. He was someone who could always be relied upon, whether you needed a listening ear, practical advice, or just someone to spend time with. Ryan’s kindness and willingness to help others made him a beloved figure in the community. His loss is not just a personal tragedy for his family but for everyone whose life he touched. Ryan’s legacy is one of compassion, selflessness, and dedication to the well-being of others, and it is a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Celebrations of Ryan’s life will be held at the First Presbyterian Church in Cookeville, Tennessee, on May 9, 2025. This service will provide family, friends, and the community an opportunity to come together to remember Ryan, reflect on the impact he had on their lives, and honor his memory. Following the service, there will be a graveside ceremony at Overton County Memorial Gardens, where Ryan will be laid to rest. This will be a time for his loved ones to pay their final respects and say goodbye to a person who was, in many ways, the heart and soul of their community.
As we remember Ryan Scott Heath, we celebrate the many ways in which he enriched the lives of others. His creativity, loyalty, and kindness were just a few of the many qualities that made him so special. But beyond these traits, it was Ryan’s ability to make those around him feel seen, heard, and appreciated that truly set him apart. He had an extraordinary gift for connecting with others and making them feel valued, and this is something that will be remembered and cherished by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Ryan’s passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with those we love. While we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the time we were fortunate enough to spend with him and the lasting impact he had on our lives. His memory will live on in the stories we tell, the lessons he taught us, and the love he gave so freely. As his family and friends gather to honor his life and legacy, we can take comfort in the knowledge that Ryan’s spirit will continue to inspire and guide us in the years to come.
In the days and weeks ahead, Ryan’s family and friends will carry his memory with them as they navigate the difficult journey of grief. But they will also carry with them the lessons Ryan imparted: the importance of creativity, the power of loyalty, and the value of kindness. These are the gifts Ryan gave to the world, and they will continue to shape the lives of those he left behind.
As we reflect on Ryan’s life, we also recognize the profound impact he had on his community. Whether through his work, his friendships, or his volunteer efforts, Ryan made a difference in the lives of countless people. He was a constant source of support, inspiration, and joy, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.
In the midst of this sorrow, Ryan’s legacy lives on. His creativity, perseverance, and unwavering loyalty are qualities that will continue to inspire those who knew him. As we come together to mourn his loss and celebrate his life, we are reminded of the importance of living each day with purpose and love. Ryan Scott Heath may no longer be with us, but his memory will live on forever in our hearts. May we continue to honor him by living lives full of compassion, creativity, and kindness, just as he did.
Rest in peace, Ryan. You will always be remembered and dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing you. Your legacy will continue to inspire us all.