Ryan Anderson

ANDERSON RYAN THOMAS ANDERSON 1978 - 2008 Ryan Thomas Anderson, son of Mike and Teresa Anderson, brother of Christian and Taylor Anderson, all of Orlean Virginia, died Tuesday November 11, 2008. Ryan's death occurred during Naval Exercises off the coast of San Diego, California. Ryan had served in the Navy since 1999 and reached the rank of Petty Officer 1st class. He was a month short of receiving a promotion to Chief Petty Officer. Commanding Officer Eckerle remarked of Ryan the following sentiment; "Petty Officer Anderson was an exceptional shipmate to each of us. His dedication and commitment to his ship (STERETT), shipmates, and the Navy's mission was an inspiration to me and every sailor on STERETT. Ryan was the kind of person who was first to volunteer for any task and continuously set new standards for each of us to follow. He was an outstanding Navy tactician who was greatly respected by the entire ship. His optimism and professionalism inspired every Sailor who came in contact with him. STERETT became a great ship as a direct result of Ryan's dedication and devotion to his ship and shipmates throughout STERETT's construction, commissioning and sail around to her homeport of San Diego." Wife, Julia Gulick Anderson of Casanova, Virginia as well as sons Payton Xavier, Gavin Ezekiel and daughters Bailey Monet, and Lisette Mackenzie survive Ryan. Grandmother Opal Wood Clater of Manassas, Virginia and Grandmother Barbara Cabiness of Florida also survive Ryan. Ryan was a devoted son, brother, husband, and father. He was born in Manassas, Virginia where he spent his childhood. Before joining the Navy, Ryan attended a Bible school for a year in Detroit, Michigan. He was then enrolled at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. All who knew and loved him will sorely miss Ryan. We pray, dear Ryan, that you are kept company by the loved ones that went before you and that Jesus Christ keeps you wrapped tightly in his arms. Peace to you until we see you again. A memorial service will be held at Moser Funeral Home in Warrenton, Virginia on Monday, November 24, at 11 a.m. A private burial will be held by his family at the family farm in Palmyra, Virginia at a later date.