Ryan Matthew Hayes

On January 3, 2007, Ryan Matthew Hayes was joyfully welcomed into the world by his parents, Matthew and Katrina Hayes, and his two older sisters, Allison and Sarah. As the youngest grandchild on his fathers side of the family, and the only grandson in a generation full of girls on his mother’s side, Ryan’s birth was a joyful celebration in his family. That baby boy grew from a rambunctious dirt-and-bug loving toddler, to a quirky and fun-loving little boy. He became a reserved, thoughtful, and considerate teenager and a strong, steadfast, and humble young man.

Ryan was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, target shooting, forging, and riding four-wheelers with his friends. He loved to go thrifting and antiquing, and he had a keen eye for finding unique treasures that he was always eager to share with his mom. As a 2025 graduate of Huntington High School and PRCTC who studied Outdoor Power Technology, you could often find him tinkering in the garage on whatever his latest project was; whether it be a truck, tractor, or anything with an engine. Though still young, Ryan had the grease stained, calloused hands of a hard worker, and truly was an old soul at heart. After graduation, Ryan pursued getting his Class A CDL and enjoyed his time as a seasonal employee at the Ross County ODOT garage. Ryan eagerly talked about his plans for the future to further his career utilizing his CDL license.

Ryan was a deeply loved son, brother, grandson, nephew, uncle, cousin, and friend. Ryan loved his family and friends fiercely. He was the kind of friend who everyone relied on, and would undoubtedly stop whatever he was doing to help anyone in need. He loved his nephews, Walker, Sawyer, and Laurence deeply and was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his fourth nephew, Carter. Ryan is lovingly referred to as the boys’ “Funcle Uncle,” and was always excited to surprise them with a new truck or tractor toy. He was doted on by his sisters, Allison and Sarah, from the moment he was born. He was undoubtedly the most incredible younger brother who grew into not only one of their closest friends, but protectors. He had a special relationship with his brother-in-laws, Nick and Chase, who cared for him as a brother of their own. Ryan brought so much love and joy to his parents, Matt and Trina, as their only son and youngest child. He was the piece that completed their family.

On June 16, 2021, at the age of 14, Ryan accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior while attending Never The Same camp with his youth group from First Wesleyan Church, where he attended with his family. On April 19, 2026, Ryan was lovingly welcomed home by his Heavenly Father, at the age of 19. While we will forever grieve the loss of our Ryan, we cling to the hope found in 2 Corinthians 5:8. “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” We have full faith that Ryan is dwelling in the presence of Jesus, and we will be reunited with him someday. Until that day comes, we will cherish the memories we have, and keep his legacy alive.

Ryan was predeceased by great grandparents Irvin Steele, Sawyer and Lovetta Burns, and Mabel Davidson. Uncles Jim Arnold and Steve Hayes.

Ryan is survived by his parents, Matthew and Katrina Hayes. Sisters Allison (Nick) Enix, and Sarah (Chase) Mayne. Nephews Walker Enix, Sawyer Enix, and Laurence Mayne. Grandparents Steve and Delores Steele, Rita Hayes, Jack and Shirley Hayes. Great Grandparent Dillard Davidson. As well as many Aunts, Uncles, cousins and close friends.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00am on Monday, April 27, 2026 at the Haller Funeral Home, with Pastor John Welch officiating. Burial will follow in Twin Township Cemetery. Friends are invited to join the family for visitation on Sunday, April 26, 2026 from 4:00pm-7:00pm at the funeral home.