Ryan Nathan

Ryan Nathan Adkins

39 years ago Ryan Nathan was born to Ron and Frances Adkins and his big brother Ronnie.

I only know stories of the things those Adkins boys got into.  It is fun to hear the stories from the boys of their "adventures and craziness".  

It wasn't until 13 1/2 years ago that I joined the family,

From even before that day, Ryan treated me like a sister.  It was as if he had always wanted a sister. He would tease unmercifully.  

Oh what I wouldn't give to be teased one more time!  To laugh and goof off with him.

On Saturday, December 14th Ryan was welcomed into the arms of Jesus.  He was a fighter until the very end!  Ryan was diagnosed with non-hodgkins lymphoma, but while it slowed him some - he didn't let it stop him.  For years he was in a great deal of pain, but wouldn't show it.  Years of battling, fighting trying to beat this dreaded disease.  He did too, he was cancer free!  It's the treatment that wore his body down.

The pain is unbearable.  Unlike anything I have ever experienced.  My heart is hurting so bad and I would do anything to listen to him, to be teased, or hear his voice or just sit with him.

From the beginning of his diagnosis we were there.  Ron and I were the first ones who knew.  We watched the girls while Ryan and Holly went to the hospital for the first time and learned that there was a mass in his chest.  I remember standing in our trailer in Circleville when they told us and just holding onto Ron.  It was devastating news and yet, Ryan was a fighter!  

He fought a good fight!  He lived a good life!  We are comforted in knowing that he now sits at the feet of Jesus, worshiping in the presence of the Creator of the Universe!  

Ryan was a giving man, a great father, a wonderful Uncle, a good husband, a great brother and son and so much more!  He loved life.  He loved family!  He loved being surrounded by family and friends.

The boys went Christmas shopping together one year and bought us girls coats!

 These boys would do absolutely anything for their Grandma Vadah.

 Uncle Ryan meeting Ronnie Lee III for the first time!

Ryan loved his girls and Holly!  He loved being surrounded by girls :) 

A loving son and brother.

The pain is unreal, unbelievable and yet I am thankful for his life.  Thankful he loved Jesus.  Thankful he used every opportunity to show Jesus to others.

The pain is still very raw, still very difficult and yet we lean heavily on Jesus!  Trusting in His love and mercy toward us!  I'm so thankful tonight for Ryan, for his heart and his love for Jesus.