Ryan Kenneth Elliott
Kenneth Ryan Elliott
Oct. 14, 1981-Sept. 30, 2024
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our son, Kenneth Ryan Elliott, who passed away peacefully in his Clermont home on Sept. 30 2024. Ryan was 42 yrs old.
Ryan was born and raised in his home town of Johnson City, TN and was a graduate of Science Hill High School .
In 2000, Ryan went on to join the United States Marines Corp. Ryan was the honor graduate of his class, he was awarded the Certificate of Commendation. He served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and also in Operation Enduring Freedom. Upon completing his tours, Ryan joined the U.S. Marine Reserves in Orlando FL., where later he was recruited and invited to join a special unit called 4th ANGLICO" out of West Palm Beach FL. 4 ANGLICO, was specifically an "Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company." Ryan went on to continue his military education and additional specialized training, continuing in the War on Global Terrorism. Ryan earned his jump wings; his rank was Gunnery Sergeant. He proudly served his country for 14 years.
Ryan was employed by Walt Disney World for 19 years, who supported him through many seasons of his life, including financial assistance as he was obtaining his Mechanical Engineering degree from Seminole State College. Ryan was chosen to participate in the planning and development of rides as a part of the Walt Disney World expansion project into Shanghai China.
Ryan was a world traveler, he visited many different countries while training with 4th ANGLICO and enjoyed many personal travels along the way. He enjoyed meeting people and learning about others cultures. He never met a stranger. He was outgoing, charismatic and had the gift of gab.
Ryan leaves behind his mother & father, Alyse A. Taylor & Kenneth W. Elliott along with two adoring step-parents, Kirk Taylor & Carroll Elliott. He leaves behind his wife, Heidi Elliott; his brother Benjamin Taylor, maternal grandmother, Teresa Gregory; Aunts Kim Ramsey & Shelia Thomas; cousins, Miss Brenda, Whitney, Zachary, Teresa, and last but not least April Elliott.
He leaves behind special step-siblings Keith, James and Whitney, whom he adored. Step-grandmother, Nadine Taylor; Aunt Bonnie Wood and cousins, Travis & Hannah. Hometown & lifelong friends, Chris, Trent & Tyler, we know he would thank you for all the years!
A special mention of Clint Strause, Ryan's closest friend. We love and thank you for your loyalty, kindness, wonderful nature and consistent presence in our son's life, especially in his last days. To his fellow marines who always had his back, we admire you and appreciate your service to our country more than our words can express. For those of you who attended the memorial service, spoke & shared your memories of Ryan, we thank you for allowing us into your private world for a little while. You made us laugh and cry, occasionally at the same time! You gave us so much more than you know. May God bless you and keep you, always.
Preceding Ryan in death were paternal grandparents, Ray & Marie Elliott of Butler TN and maternal great grandparents Walter & Grace Brinkley of Johnson City TN. Uncle, Jim Brinkley of Jacksonville FL. Uncle Nick Elliott of St. Petersburg FL. Special Step-grandfather retired & admired, U.S. Marine, Tom Taylor
A Military/Funeral Service will be held at 2:30 on Thursday, November 7, Bay Pines National Cemetery, 10000 Bay Pines Blvd. St. Petersburg FL. The family welcomes flowers and/or donations to the
Wounded Warrior Project, in Memory of Kenneth Ryan Elliott.
Published by Johnson City Press from Oct. 25 to Oct. 26, 2024.