In memory of Ryan Jacob Query
October 11, 1982 – March 23, 2017
This cross was built for a wedding. But today it was used for a memorial service.
Along the banks of the May River in Bluffton, South Carolina, we remembered the life of Ryan Query. He was an Army veteran, son, brother, father, and the fiancé of Julie Robbins. They were the winning couple of our Lowcountry Wedding giveaway, and they were all set to experience their dream wedding in Charleston, South Carolina. But on March 23rd–just a month before their wedding day–Ryan passed away unexpectedly.
Today, his bride, stood in front of the cross Ryan built–for their wedding ceremony–and shared her broken heart with all of us.
Ryan’s legacy lives on in their son, Caden, a beautiful baby boy who was born with spina bifida. It’s a health condition that comes with tremendous medical bills. May we honor Ryan’s memory together by contributing to the GoFundMe account set up in their names. Any monetary amount is appreciated.
My hope and prayer is the generosity of friends and strangers alike will brighten dark days and lighten the burden for Julie and her son.
https://www.gofundme.com/julierobbinsryanquery
My heart is breaking as I read this.
My thoughts and prayers will be with them.
I was born and raised in the Piedmont area of NC, also.
I now reside in the low country, too. So I feel a special bond for this family.
I wish the mother and child all the best this world can offer….
A wonderful tribute would be the story of how this all unfolded as only you, Mary Alice Monroe could write it, and donate the proceeds to this beautiful family. I don’t know them at all, but broke down in tears when I read this. I had followed the contest thinking how romantic the wedding would be. My heart goes out to this bride and her son and I would be the first in line to buy a copy of the book! God’s blessings on you all.
I am Ryan’s mother. Ryan was so excited to be marrying the love of his life and soulmate, Julie Robbins in just a few short weeks. Everything was ready and we were excitedly counting the days. On March 23, he was taken suddenly without warning. There was nothing that could have been done. I’ve asked myself “why” over and over. There are simply no answers. Ryan leaves behind his heartbroken fiance Julie and their precious little fifteen month old boy, Caden. Little Caden was born with severe Spina Bifida and faces many challenges ahead. However, he has his daddy’s happy disposition and his beautiful smile that lights up the room. His daddy worked so hard with his little son as his primary caretaker and gave selflessly of his time to his little boy. Ryan was simply an amazing father and family man. I know that he’ s in a better and that we will see him again one day. Until then, I will live the rest of my life trying to be as generous, kind and loving as my beautiful boy was. Rest peacefully in that eternal glorious sunset in the sky my son…I’ll miss you until I draw my last breath on this earth. I love you Ryan…rest in peace my son.????
Thank you, Cheryl, for your thoughtful words and prayers. All of it is needed for the family as they walk this journey.
Annette, thank you for the thoughtful suggestion. And I appreciate you following along on this real Lowcountry Wedding story. I only wish this story could have had a happy ending too.
Cynthia,
It was an honor to meet you. All of your family will remain in our thoughts and prayers in the days and months ahead.
I am Marilyn Blackwell’s cousin. My heart aches for you. I lost my 35 year old son 2 years ago. It’s a pain that will never go away. Get strength from every hug to make it through each day. Talk to Ryan every day; he’s with you. Prayers continue for you. If you need a stranger who feels your pain, I am here for you. God’s blessings and loving arms surround you
Thank you for sharing your compassionate wisdom, Myra. I’m sorry to hear about your son.