Ryan Roy Whitehouse

1981 - 2025

Ryan Roy Whitehouse

November 14, 1981 - September 24, 2025

Ryan Roy Whitehouse, a beloved pillar of our community and an amazing son, brother, uncle and godfather passed away on September 24 surrounded by family and friends in Grand Rapids Michigan at the age of 43. Born in Normal IL on November 14, 1981, Ryan dedicated his entire life to community service and his family. Ryan also continued his legacy of giving to others even after death by being a Gift of Life organ donor.

His funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, October 7, 2025, in the West Expo building at the Intestate Center in Bloomington with Rev. Dan Jassman officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Arrowsmith Township Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 3:00-8:00 p.m., Monday, October 6, 2025, at the Interstate Center. Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home, Bloomington is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. For those who have them, the family asks that you please wear your St. Jude’s shirts to the visitation and/or funeral for Ryan.

Ryan is survived by his loving mother, Michelle, his siblings Mike, Mindy, Wayne, and Craig (Amy). He leaves behind his niece and nephews whom he adored dearly. Among them are Cory, Eve, Matthew, Hunter, Brandt, Dawson, and Mikey. He also leaves behind his god daughter Avery Ummel whom he loved immensely, his uncle Bill Marc and many cousins.

He was predeceased by his father (William), maternal and paternal grandparents, uncle Charles and cousin Casey.

Ryan graduated from Ridgeview High school and Illinois State University where he received a Bachelor of Science in Politics and Government. Ryan was a member of the Ridgeview band, Honor Society, Captains, FFA, and local 4-H and served as the senior class president. Ryan was a deacon at church and a member of the Arrowsmith town board in his earlier years.

From 2007-2013 Ryan served as the government and public affairs director for the McLean County Chamber of Commerce. From 2013 to 2019 he served as the associate director of national legislation & policy for Illinois Farm Bureau. In July of 2019 he was named the associate director of local government & political engagement. Currently Ryan served as the Illinois Farm Bureau director of national legislation.

In addition to his career, Ryan served on the board of directors for the Illinois State University Central Illinois Young Alumni. He was a member of the board for American Lebanese Syrian Associated Charities (ALSAC) which is the fundraising organization for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. He was a board member of St. Jude’s Runs -Bloomington to Peoria and a chairperson for the St. Jude’s Run/Walk committee. Ryan was a chairman of Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council and Connect Transit. Ryan was a member of the Governor Jim Edgar Fellows, class of 2023.

Ryan's love for running and biking led to several half marathons and triathlons during his life. Ryan spent numerous hours advocating for farmers surrounded by his Illinois Farm Bureau family. He loved his trips to Washington, D.C. Ryan volunteered many hours organizing local commemorations for

veterans. We will remember his infamous rice krispy treats and buffalo chicken dip.

Ryan will be remembered for his immense love he had for his family and friends. Ryan spent many hours working alongside his father and siblings on projects. He was a social butterfly that touched the heart of everyone he met. His smile, his laughter and his story telling will live on in our hearts.

Ryan leaves a legacy of dedication to his country, community, and family.

Ryan Roy, our baby boy, our pride and joy. We will love you forever. To express condolences online, please visit www.carmodyflynn.com.