Ryan Mitchell Wilcox

Ryan Mitchell Wilcox

Ryan Wilcox Obituary

Published by Currie Funeral Home and Crematory on Dec. 14, 2008.
WILCOX, Ryan Mitchell, 17, of Kilmarnock, died December 12, 2008. He was a student and member of the crew team at Christchurch School, a junior member of the Kilmarnock Volunteer Fire Department, member of Boy Scout Troop 242 and an avid hunter. Surviving are his mother and father, Kyle and Kenneth Bransford; grandparents, Kay and Thomas Carroll Somers of White Stone; brother, Eric Bransford and wife, Molly, of Richmond; sister, Bridget Morgan and husband, Mark, of High Point, N.C.; nieces, Caroline and Grace Morgan and Carter Bransford; uncles and aunts, Eric and Margaret Nost and Paul and Beth Somers, all of White Stone, John and Mary Bransford, P. K. and Wenda Bransford, Sean and Karen Malone, Tim and Lynn Bransford, all of Newport News; two cousins, Laura and Foster Nost. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, December 16 at Kilmarnock United Methodist Church, Kilmarnock. Interment Woodlawn Cemetery, Kilmarnock. Friends may call 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, December 15 at the Currie Funeral Home, Kilmarnock. Memorials may be made to Kilmarnock Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 1295, Kilmarnock, 22482 or Christchurch School Ryan Wilcox Memorial Fund, 49 Seahorse Lane, Christchurch, 23031.
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

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December 20, 2008

Joan Gravatt posted to the memorial.

December 19, 2008

Sarah Jones posted to the memorial.

December 17, 2008

Jane and Chip Andreae posted to the memorial.

Joan Gravatt

December 20, 2008

Kyle and Ken,
I feel some of your pain at this great loss. I know that there is nothing I can say or do to ease the pain. Just know that my thoughts and prayers are with you daily and I will always be here to listen. I loved him also!
Hoochie Mama

Sarah Jones

December 19, 2008

Ryan,
You were one of a kind. I will never forget all of the hilarious and serious talks that we had. We were a lot closer at the beginning of the school year this year, and I was greatful because it is my senior year. I know how excited you were about the army and I will always remember the talks that we had about how scared you were about doing it, yet how you were so excited. We connected on many different levels. Even though you were in the Kilmarnock Fire Department and you teased me because I was involved with White Stone's, I still loved talking to you about it. Every time those tones went off you were gone boy, no matter what it was, you were always ready to save someone or something. I will always remember those good luck text messages I got before every single game I had. Whether it was Volleyball or Basketball, Home or Away, I still got that text message. I will miss it greatly. You were my number one fan, whether you knew it or not, you were. No one will ever be able to replace that spot. I'll also keep that cd you made me forever and always. I remember being so confused as to who left it in my Jeep for days until I listened to it and finally figured out that it was you. You were such a sweet and dedicated person. I know how much you worked and how when you set yourself up to do something, you did it to the best of your ability. If I ever needed anything, you were there. And when you would roll up in the parkin lot and would park 2 inches from my car to see what was wrong, you made sure I was ok. I will never forget that Ryan. I'm going to miss you a lot but I know that you will always be here with me. You are forever in my heart and I will love you always.

Jane and Chip Andreae

December 17, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. As a new family to Christchurch School we know what a wonderful community it is, and hope we can all help you in any way possible. May God bless your family and help you in the coming months when you need it most.

Cathy Mays

December 17, 2008

Bransford Family
We extend our sincere condolences to your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Cathy and Dennis Mays

Ann Harris

December 17, 2008

Kyle and family,
I am so sorry about the loss of Ryan; he is already so missed by his CCS family. I remember Ryan most from way back in the Basic Beginnings and Chesapeake Academy days. I met him again when he started at CCS and he was still as exuberant and outgoing as he was back then. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers each day.

John Porter

December 17, 2008

Dear Kyle, Ken and Family,
There are no words that will accurately express how deeply sorry we are for your loss. Our sympathies go out to you and may the Lord comfort you during this time.
Amanda, John, Jack and Joey

Barnes, Dixon & Martello Families

December 16, 2008

Bransford Family
"Memories keep the one you loved
close to you in spirit and thought
and always in your heart,today and forever.
May your memories bring you comfort..
Memory is a special place in our hearts where
we can find comfort in the treasured thoughts
of those we hold dear. May it help to know
that others care deeply and are remembering
you with special thoughts." We are very sorry for
your loss and you will be in our hearts during
this difficult time in your lives. Know that we will
always be there for you whenever you need us.

Ford Kirkmyer

December 16, 2008

Ryan was one of a kind. His ability to walk into a room and instantly lighten the mood with his comic relief was amazing. Last year Ryan was in my Spanish class and this year, my Algebra class. Everyday there would be a new story relating to hunting, fishing, the Army, or the fire department and I looked forward to it everyday. Ryan was an irreplaceable person who didn't change for anyone and who stood strong on his beliefs. He was a kind, loving, caring, funny, and dedicated person. He was one of the friendliest people I know and will always be missed by all who knew him. Rest in peace, Ryan. You will live in our hearts forever.

Emily Scribe

December 16, 2008

I began school at Christchurch with Ryan, my sophmore, his freshman year. He was the girl's coxswain during the spring. We only had a few races but I look back fondly on the memories we made out on the water for those few short weeks. His love and dedication to crew was evident everyday at practice. Ryan was a giving,outgoing,wonderful southern gentleman and although I did not know him well, I will miss passing him at school and hearing his voice tell a joke or story. Your son was a fantastic guy with a heart willing to help whenever he could. May God help you through the rough times.We will all miss Ryan very much and are praying for him and you all.

jd Dodd

December 16, 2008

We Are Praying For Your Family
Moo& J.D.
Moo's Urbanna, Va.

David Dorsch & Emily Mahoney

December 16, 2008

To the family of Ryan, we are deeply sorry for the lost of your amazing son. May god be with you in these hard times and may he welcome ryan into heaven with open arms. we will be praying for ryan and his family. Ryan was a wonderful role model for all who knew him. God bless him, and his family. Amen.

Joe & Katie Felton

December 16, 2008

Your family is in our prayers during this difficult time.

Shelby Seitz

December 16, 2008

I just wanted to say that Ryan really did brighten my day. He was always full of spirit and a truly nice person. He was in my Algebra 2 class and sat right near me. In fact, i recently borrowed a pencil from him. He knew i loved the color pink, so he gave it to me to use, and it's still in my backpack. I will always keep it. Another thing that Ryan and i had in common was my dad is in the United States Coast Guard Reserves and is deployed for 6 months, he always talked about it with me, telling me everything was going to be alright and explained to me how he was going into the Army Reserves. He was so eager and excited to begin his journey for his country. Every day at some point of the day, he would ask me for my social security number to sign me up too, so he could get a $1000 bonus. I will never forget him. Ryan would talk to me about Virginia Tech and how he loved hunting. Losing someone is the hardest thing anyone has to face. I just want to let you know, that my family is here for you all.

louis Turner

December 16, 2008

To Kenny and Family. May Christ be with the entire family during this time. CHRIST has alreay prepared a place for your son and his great reward is EVERLASTING LIFE. Dear Ryan is patiently waiting for the rest of his family.May Christ ,our Living God, be with you now and forever more. Amen and Amen....Fuzzy Turner (63)

Edward Chalkley

December 15, 2008

Dear Ryan's family,

I did not know Ryan all too well, but I did know him from Fork Union Military Academy. He was always the life of the platoon and even the company. I always knew him to be one of the most humorous of the group. Though it was tough for us all he stuck with it and made it through with all his brothers. I extend to you my utmost sympathies and will keep your family in my prayers. I'd like to think that I speak on behalf of the entire Fork Union Military Academy middle school in saying farewell to our comrade, friend, and brother! He will be missed!

Will Galleher

December 15, 2008

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Bransford,
My heart and prayers go out to your family at this time. I have known Ryan since the ninth grade at Christchurch School and I will never forget him. He taught me a lesson with his open opinions to not be afraid to stand up for what you believe in. He always had a smiling face and could make a joke out of any situation that would cheer you up. He sat beside me in two classes this year, and I thought it was a great joy to talk to him everyday. I will miss his company dearly in my classes and my life. He was a true Southern Gentlemen. I will always miss Ryan and his smile.

With Love,
Will Galleher

John Radcliffe

December 15, 2008

Dear Mr and Mrs Bransford,
I am so sorry for your loss. I don't even know where to begin. Ryan meant so much to me and I know he meant the world to y'all. I will never forget him. He changed my life for the better and and I miss him greatly. He always parked next to me at school, and no one can replace the manner in which he would do so. He'd come in and just park. I never saw him adjust his truck - not because he did not have to, but because he wouldn't. It made me laugh every day. I could go on and on with stories about how he made me laugh or helped me out, but I will leave you with just one more in particular. At the Occoquan Chase, we got out on the water about an hour early. We got to the start line and saw only women's eights. A judge told us to move to the end of the line, as we had a long time to wait. Instead of telling us to row by pairs and taking it easy, Ryan had all four of us sit ready. None of us thought that was a good idea, but we did what we were told to. He skillfully maneuvered the Hope - his baby - through the assorted shells. It was an amazing feat of steering and it still amazes me how he did that. I miss Ryan and I will never forget your son.
Love, John Radcliffe

Austin Brown

December 15, 2008

I want to show my deepest and sincere sympathies to Ryan and his family. Ryan was a great student, athlete, and friend to EVERYONE in the CCS community and anywhere else he was. I remember Ryan for his great smile and intent on bringing everyone happiness. I would always see him every morning and say "Hey Ryan!" and he would always answer back with something positive such as "Well good morning to you too" or "Today is going to be a great day, dont you think?" I will always miss ryan at school and I pray for you all and your family. Thanks Ryan for being such a great person to anyone and everyone. You will NEVER be forgotten! Rest in peace my friend. See you later on.

Jackson Neal

December 15, 2008

Dear Mr and Mrs Brandsford,

I wanted to show my respect of Ryan, I will miss him greatly at school. I can remember my first day at pre-season in my first year. I was scared to death, but Ryan was a real help to me. He was one of my first new friends at this new time in my life. I know how much he loved hunting and how much he loved to tell his ridiculous and off the wall stories on our way to Rose-Gill.He was a true friend and i will miss him greatly.

Joe Wingo

December 15, 2008

Dear Ken and Family,
Please accept my sincere condolances.While I cannot imagine the sense of loss,I also know there is a loving God who will provide you all the strength needed to get through this ordeal.
Just know one old Typhoon is thinking of another and holding you and your family in my prayers.
May God's grace and comfort be your constant companion.
Sincerely,
Joe

Cliff Sandy

December 15, 2008

Wilcox family,
The family and friends of Troop 258 wish to extend our deepest sympathies in this time of loss. YIS, Cliff Sandy, ASM Troop 258

Barbara Zaimes

December 15, 2008

Dearest Kyle and family:

I can't find the words to express the sorrow for "our" loss - and I truly mean "our" loss. I feel that both James and I, as well as all whose lives Ryan touched, have lost a person that effected us all in a very special and wonderful way. What I loved most about Ryan was his sense of humor (even when some of his humor was a little "colorful" I found myself chuckling under my breath while driving the boys to school) and his untiring enthusiasm. He love boating, hunting, crew, the fire department and most of all both you and Ken. There will always be a spot in my heart you, Ken and Ryan and if I knew how to erase the pain I would - but if there were no pain there would be no love. Please don't hesitate to lean on your friends - we all have big shoulders.

The Zaimes family

Rebecca Light

December 15, 2008

Ken, Kyle, and family:

It is with great disbelief that I am placing an entry in an Obituary Guest Book for Ryan; someone whom I've had the privilage of watching grow from a boy to a young man over the course of the last 8+ years.

I am sorry to hear of this tragic loss that will be felt by you, your families, this community, and all of the people whose lives he has touched through the years.

I found this poem and thought it was appropriate:

"To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me."
-Ruth Ann Mahaffey

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult and trying time.

Becca

Wanda Wallin

December 15, 2008

Dear Ken and Kyle,
May God provide you with comfort and love now and always! We can not imagine the pain you are experiencing. Ryan touched our family's lives in many positive ways. We will always remember his sense of humor, his civic mindedness, his love of hunting, his entrepreneur endeavors, and his big heart! We reach out to you with our prayers and love! Jay, Wanda, Jack and Matthew Wallin

Genet Berhane

December 15, 2008

My deepest sympathy's and condolences to your family. Even though i didn't have the honor of meeting Ryan, I know he was a fine young man an his memories and sprit will always be with us. At times like these there are no words that can fix wrong to right, yet I hope God will give you the strength to heal and to only celebrate the beautiful footprint Ryan left for all of us.
Genet Berhane, Christchurch parent

Philip Tholand

December 15, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this time of grief. Ryan was a very unique person. He always had his goofy smile on and could brighten your day, no matter what the case. One thing I will always remember Ryan for is that he did what ever was fun, and if it wasn't fun he always found some way to make it fun. Its a virtue of Ryan's I hope to live the rest of my life by. I will always remember Ryan. Again my thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Spencer Whitehouse

December 15, 2008

My deepest sympathy's are with you. As a team we have decided to channel our questioning and pain into our work ethic to honor Ryan as our coxswain. Ryan was the best coxswain I have ever had and truly was the only person that would and could ever convert me into a southerner. I enjoyed all of my time with Ryan this fall and each member of our team is going to carry a little bit of Ryan with them everyday so that he will live on.

“Love is stronger than death even though it can't stop death from happening, but no matter how hard death tries it can't separate people from love. It can't take away our memories either. In the end, life is stronger than death.”

Mark Rhodes

December 15, 2008

Dear Ryan's Family,
I know this is a hard time for everyone but especially your family. We all remember good times with Ryan, especially when he and i went hunting. He was always joking around and a lot of fun to be with. I know hunting and being apart of the fire department were two of his hobbies. I have planned on raising money some how and getting a car sticker made in memory for Rye. The money collected will go to buying the stickers and if there is any extra money i want to give it to your family for a fund or whatever you wish to use it for. Rye will be missed lots from the ccs community. I am also going to make a cross with a few of my friends and put it at the tree. It will have his birthdate and 12/12/08 on it with his name. If you need help with anything please call me or email me. My cell is 804 436 6686, and my school email is [email protected]. Please don't hesitate to call and ask for help. And when you decide to do something with the hunting stands, i will be more than happy to help go get them if you want them out of the woods. We all love you guys, and we are keeping you in our prayers. R.I.P Ryan, you will never be forgotten, love you big guy

Marie Craft

December 15, 2008

I remember Ryan by his trips through Student Life at Christchurch School. He would update me on his Volunteer work with the Fire and Rescue. He had a passion for what he was doing. You could hear it in his voice. He will sorely be missed. I will miss our conversations. All my love and condolences to Ryan's friends and family. Ms. Craft, Christchurch School

Austin Morway

December 15, 2008

Ryan was a good a good classmate, athelete, friend, volunteer, but he was most importantly a great brother in our CCS family. We will all miss you Ryan, and I know that you are still looking out for your family and friends while resting in heaven.

Rest in Peace Ryan,
Austin Morway

Vickie Garner

December 15, 2008

Dear Kyle, Preachy & Family: Just wanted you to know our thoughts and prayers are with you and offer our deepest sympathy also. May God give you the courage and the strength to go through these next few weeks. Love, Tommy & Vickie Garner

Donna and Tommy Evans WSVFD

December 15, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this tragically sad time. Your family is being raised up in prayers in households all over and we hope that in some small way, this will give you strength and eventual peace.

Dan Coleman

December 15, 2008

My condolences to Kyle, Kenny and family on the passing of their son. We'll be thinking about you.

Joanne Lynch

December 14, 2008

Dear Kyle and family, we offer our deepest sympathy in the loss of Ryan. our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely, Joe and Joanne Lynch

Chiles Family et al

December 14, 2008

Dear Kyle, Ken, and Family;

Just to let you know Ryan might be gone in this physical world, but he is not forgotten….Ryan was the spice of our car pool, along with each young man that rode with us their freshman year to CCS. His love of country music and disdain for rap made our car pool moments hilarious and interesting, to say the least. Ryan had a wonderful sense of humor; and it was clear Ryan wanted to serve others with his work in the fire department. Our memory of him holding his Fire Department radio on his side is what we can picture, along with his huge smile. No one can fully understand the pain and loss parents go through when something like this happens…We can only imagine if it was our own loss, our empathy is great. It pains us so much to know how much you are suffering from this tragedy and if there is anything Nick or our family can do to help you through this difficult time, let us know?
Ryan wants us to be happy, he knows we will all miss him immensely, but he knows we will all meet again.
We can already imagine Ryan trying to convince God that country music is better than classical !

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Hugs and May God bless you and yours, and also the entire CCS family,
Dave, Fran, Michelle and Nick Chiles

Randal Brown

December 14, 2008

With deepest sympathies for the loss of such a fine young man. He will be greatly missed at Christchurch.

Julie Thostenson-Gravatt

December 14, 2008

Dear Kyle, Ken and families --

I pray: May God give you strength in this darkest of times. May He soften the pain of your loss. May He gently preserve the tiny flame of hope and healing as you traverse the rugged course of grief. Amen.

Garnett and Paul Copeland

December 14, 2008

Dear Ryan's Family: Our son, Jake Copeland, was killed in accident during his senior year at Christchurch in 2006. There is not one day that goes by that we do not think of him. We know and feel your pain. Please let the love and support of your family and friends help to carry you through these difficult times; we would never have survived without it. Also, please know that Ryan is just fine. Even though he was just a young man with his whole life ahead of him, he accomplished what he was meant to do and then God called him to serve with Him. Feel comfort knowing that eventhough your heart is breaking and you do not think you can make it until the next day, that you will be given the strength to carry on. Your memories will help to keep him with you always. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Garnett and Paul Copeland

Holly Grove Volunteer Rescue Squad, Inc

December 14, 2008

Our heartfelt sympathy to family, friends and squad members.

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December 20, 2008

Joan Gravatt posted to the memorial.

December 19, 2008

Sarah Jones posted to the memorial.

December 17, 2008

Jane and Chip Andreae posted to the memorial.