Ryan H. Koza

Ryan H. Koza, 22, a resident of Sneads Ferry, North Carolina, passed away Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, at his home. He was born Aug. 18, 2003, in Marion County.

A former resident of Henry County, Ryan was a United States Marine serving First Bn, sixth MAR in Camp Lejeune, NC. Ryan was also a member of the second Bn, sixth MAR. He successfully completed two MEU/SOC deployments in his first four years of service. Ryan was currently awaiting A&S for MARSOC to be a Raider like his great-grandfather, Sgt. John V. Murphy. He was described by his Marines as an outstanding Marine and an amazing human being. He was a proud 0331 "machine gun man". During his service he earned a Navy Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, two Sea Service Deployment Ribbons and the Navy Arctic Service Ribbon. He was a proud dual member of the American Legion Post #137/Sons of the American Legion Squadron #137. Being a fellow Belleau Woodsman, he proudly displayed the French Fourragere. An avid artist, Ryan enjoyed drawing, shooting, music and riding his motorcycle.

Survivors include his wife, Ryley E. McCullough, father, Steven (Amy) Koza, mother, Charity (David) Hackney, siblings, Steven J. Koza II, Hannah E. Koza, Tomi (Nathan) Sauerhage, Katlynn E.A. (Riley) Morgan, Kirstie M. (Jason) Curtis, and Maggie (Mason) Johnson. Five nephews and a niece. His dog "Moose", but he'll miss "Lita" the most.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Carolyn A. Koza.

Visitation will be held from 11-11:45 a.m., Thursday, April 2 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle. A graveside service will be held at 12 p.m., Thursday, April 2 at South Mound Cemetery, Legion Hill. You may express condolences or share a memory of Ryan at www.hinsey-brown.com.