Ryan Thayer, a native and lifelong resident of Abingdon, VA, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 23, 2026, surrounded by family and friends.

Ryan was born to Sherman and Barbara Thayer, also of Abingdon, and grew up on the family farm just outside of town. Ryan was a twin along with Russ, and they were the youngest of seven children. The family were members of Washington Chapel UMC, and later also attended Blackwell’s Chapel UMC. As a child Ryan enjoyed professional wrestling and was an active member of a variety of school sports. It was also during these years that Ryan formed a close-knit group of friends who would remain an important part of his life. Even as life took them in different directions, those friendships remained strong throughout the years.

After high school, Ryan moved to Harrisonburg, VA to pursue his bachelor’s degree at James Madison University. Little did he know that some of the most meaningful and lasting friendships of his life would begin there. With his lifelong passion for cars, Ryan quickly found his place in Madison Motorsports (MM), a student organization that brought together fellow car enthusiasts. He eventually became president of the club, but for Ryan it was always about more than just cars. It was about the people, the friendships, and the memories made along the way. Through Madison Motorsports, Ryan formed countless friendships and touched many lives. His connection to the club continued long after graduation, and he regularly returned to Harrisonburg to attend events, reconnect with friends, and remain part of the community he loved.

After graduating from college, Ryan returned home to begin his career. It was during this time that he reconnected with Samantha, whom he had known since high school and working together at Kroger. Their friendship quickly blossomed into a romance, beginning a love story that would lead to 15 years of marriage and a life filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Ryan and Samantha shared a deep love for their family and beloved pets. Ryan held a special place in his heart for their late dog, Miley, as well as Polly, Riker, and Cricket.

Later in life, thanks to MM, Ryan became affiliated with Out Motorsports, the largest, most active LGBTQ+ drivers’ community in the United States. Ryan looked forward to their races every year, and everyone enjoyed seeing which crazy car Ryan would show up with each year, and then somehow manage to sell for a profit after abusing it on the racetrack.

Ryan dedicated his career to serving others through the criminal justice system. He began his career as a probation officer with Community Corrections, working with misdemeanor offenders, before transitioning to juvenile probation with the Commonwealth of Virginia. He later moved into adult probation before joining the United States Probation Office in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, eventually transferring to the Abingdon office. Ryan spent 12 years as a United States Probation Officer in the Western District of Virginia, where he also served as a Certified Firearms Instructor. In recent years, he shared his knowledge and experience by teaching Introduction to Probation and Parole at Virginia Highlands Community College. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ryan was known for his ability to connect with people, his generosity with his time, and his willingness to go the extra mile for his colleagues. It was these personal connections, more than any title or accomplishment, that truly defined his career.

Above all else, Ryan will be remembered for his generous heart, quick wit, and unforgettable sense of humor. He never met a stranger and had a natural ability to make people laugh, often with a perfectly timed joke or witty remark. His laughter was just as contagious as his humor, and those who knew him knew that once he started laughing it was often impossible for him to stop. Beneath that humor was a genuinely kind and thoughtful person who went out of his way to make others feel special. One of his most cherished traditions was “Sam’s Friday Flowers,” a weekly trip to Janie’s Country Gallery Florist to bring Samantha fresh flowers every Friday. And true to Ryan’s generous nature, Samantha wasn’t always the only recipient. He often brightened someone else’s day with flowers, too. Whether he was showing up with his truck to lend a hand or taking a friend to the movies when they needed company, Ryan had a way of making people feel loved and appreciated. His kindness, laughter, and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. The number of people who showed up for Ryan in his final days is a testament to his character that touched everyone he knew throughout his life.

Ryan is survived by his wife Samantha, mother Barbara Thayer, sisters Kim Snyder (Tim), Tonia Donovan (Bill), and Lisa May, and his twin brother Russ Thayer (Oriane), along with multiple nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. Ryan is preceded in death by his father Sherman, and brothers Justin and Craig.

Though his life was far too short, the impact he made on those who knew and loved him will endure. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A celebration of life drop-in gathering will be held on Sunday, November 22, 2026, from 1-4 p.m. at Middle Fork Barn, 30099 Rivermont Drive, Meadowview, VA 24361.

The family wishes to express its sincerest gratitude and heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated doctors, nurses, and staff of Bristol Regional Medical Center and Ballad Health Hospice House for their exceptional care, kindness, and compassion during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Ballad Health Hospice House or to Out Motorsports.

Frost Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family of Mr. Ryan Sherman Thayer.