Ryan Clay Kinney was born on January 10, 1969 in Houston, Texas to Mathes and Betty Kinney. On December 4, 1993, he married Erin O'Rorke in Conroe, Texas. He and Erin have lived in the Katy area for 14 years, where he was a member of the Grand Lakes Presbyterian Church. Ryan was a 1990 graduate of the University of Texas, and was a Youth Minister for six years in the United Methodist Church in Lindale and Tyler. He was also a banker of over 12 years.
Ryan Clay Kinney passed away on Friday, December 23, 2011, in Houston, at the age of 42 years.
He is survived by his wife of 18 years, Erin Kinney of Katy; daughter, Megan Kinney of Katy; son, Collin Kinney of Katy; mother, Betty Kinney of Conroe; brothers, Todd Kinney and his wife Linda of Nacogdoches, and Cory Kinney and his wife Laureen of Conroe; nephew, Jared Kinney of Vassar, Michigan; and numerous other relatives. He was preceded in death by his father, Mathes Lee Kinney.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 29, 2011, at the Grand Lakes Presbyterian Church, in Katy, where funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, with Rev. Dean Pogue officiating. A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, December 30, 2011, at the McKnight Cemetery in Cushing, Texas, with Dr. Pat Sparks officiating.
Those wishing to make memorial gifts may do so to the Ryan Kinney Memorial Fund at Grand Lakes Presbyterian Church, 6035 S. Fry Road, Katy, Texas 77450.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Gail Alston
August 13, 2012
Hi, Mrs. Kinney. I just learned today about Ryan's passing. I'm so very sorry. May God continue to comfort you and your family.
Gail Alston
August 13, 2012
Hi, Erin. I just learned about Ryan's death and I'm so very sorry. May God continue to comfort you, Megan and Collin.
February 9, 2012
Erin,
Thinking of you all everyday.
Donna
Jennifer Borger
January 13, 2012
Praying for your family!! Ryan and I were friends in college. His infectious laughter and positive attitude was always an inspiration to me! You always had a good time when you were with Ryan Kinney! I pray that you find comfort, healing and peace.
LeeAnn Bishop Dunn
January 2, 2012
Erin,
I was looking for your address and decided to google you. I found this. I am so sorry to read the news about Ryan. My heart hurts for you. You, your children and families will be in my prayers. Ryan... what a terrific person.
Stephen Molohosky
January 1, 2012
One of the most kindest man that I have ever met. I remember camping with him at Scout summer camp in 1980. My thoughts are with You and your children Erin.
Erin Kinney
December 31, 2011
Dear Friends,
Thank you so much for your messages of sympathy during this very difficult time for our families. Both sides of our families are deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved Ryan. Ryan's mom and brothers need just as much prayer and comfort as Megan, Collin and me. Ryan and I just celebrated our eighteenth wedding anniversary on Dec. 4th. I have enjoyed reading all the messages written about Ryan and appreciate all the prayers while the kids and I adjust to life without the husband and dad that was, and will continue to be, so deeply loved. It is a blessing to be able to share with Megan (who will be 13 in March) and Collin (10) that their dad, as a young man, was viewed as a good friend, caring, funny, respected, and most of all that his faith in Christ was evident in his life. I recognized it early on.......along with with beatiful blue eyes and bright smile. God planted his love deeply into my heart so early, that I know the future of our family will always be molded by the example Ryan led. Ryan's motivation for life was to make the best of each day and bless others in some way. I can honestly say he made sure he said "I love you" to the kids and me EVERY SINGLE DAY. Parenting is very tough at times, but we knew as long as Megan and Collin knew how much they are loved by us.....and that the love ultimately comes from Christ...that even when we messed up, our kids would be guided in the way they should go. Even if they stray away from God's good plan for their lives, that He promises they will return.
Ryan passed away on December 23rd and most people wonder how our family is dealing with God's timing. Ryan has been a Christian since he was a young boy. Knowing that Ryan's heart was in God's word every single day, he was able to share attributes of God's love everywhere he went. He was a wonderful husband and dad because he spent time almost all of his extra time at home with his family. We know God's timing is always perfect, and Ryan's death must have been a gift, just for him, so he was in Heaven celebrating with all the angels (and his dad) the birth of the Jesus Christ. That is what brings us peace that surpasses all understanding.
Again thank you for all your thoughtful comments and prayers.
Very sincerely,
Erin Kinney
Leona Howell
December 31, 2011
Dear Betty, Todd, Corey, Erin, Megan and Collin,
Know that you are in our prayers, and thoughts. So saddened at this news. I
know you will seek strength from God.
Ryan was a wonderful friend to Robert and Roy.
With deepest sympathy. Leona
Erin Kinney
December 31, 2011
If you have read Ryan's obituary, you saw there has been a Ryan Kinney Fund created at our church in his honor. This fund was created, with my permission, for the purpose of helping those community members who are experiencing critical financial situations. This means the church will use the money donated to help people with maintaing very basic needs.
Many of our closest friends and family have asked if there is a fund set up for Megan and Collin's future college expenses. If you are desiring to contribute in this way, please just send a check written out to me, and I will add it to their existing Franklin Templeton 529 College savings accounts. I promise, to honor your request.
Megan is a 7th grader at Beck Jr. High and Collin is in 4th grade at Exley Elementary in Katy ISD. I actually teach fourth grade across the hall at Collin's school.
Our address is mentioned in a previous message I posted, but here it is again:
20835 Figurine Court
Katy, Tx 77450
Erin Kinney
December 31, 2011
This is Erin. I am not on facebook, but I want to provide our home address.
20835 Figurine Court
Katy, Tx 77450
email: [email protected]
Erin Kinney
December 31, 2011
Dear Friends,
Thank you so much for all of the messages of sincere sympathy during this difficult time. I added some pictures, so you will have an idea of what our family life has been for the past eighteen years. In this time of saddness, God has shown Himself in amazing ways. Ryan never lost his focus of sharing the love of Christ to others. It is wonderful to be able to share with our children Megan (12) and Collin (10) that even when he was young, he made a positive influence in other people's lives because of the Christian faith he recieved as a young boy. Megan and Collin are amazing children who understand that Ryan is in heaven and that even though we are sad, he is in the presence of his heavenly father. (Also that Ryan has been reunited with his own dad!) Even though we ALL fall short and of course need grace and forgiveness, Ryan had as close to a perfect heart because of his relationship with Christ. I am sad because we will no longer physically receive his hugs, hear "I love you, " (or LOUD laughter), or see his bright smile, but we have many, many, memories to cherish. Most of all we know that God has a plan for each one of us, and that Ryan ultimately belonged to Him. We can have peace knowing Ryan is in the place that God prepared for him, and that he is in the presence of God the Father Almighty. Until we see him again, Megan, Collin and I will continue the special ways he blessed our home. He always told me that I made our house a home. Actually, Ryan did.
Thank you for your prayers and words of encouragement.
Sincerely,
Erin Kinney
Ryan and I just celebrated our 18th anniversary. He was an amazing man who blessed others through Christ's love. What a legacy!
Erin Kinney
December 31, 2011
Ryan was an amazing dad and husband. He made us laugh....a lot!
Erin Kinney
December 31, 2011
Ryan and Megan loved to tube behind Erin's dad's boat.
Erin Kinney
December 31, 2011
Megan is now 12, and Collin is 10 years old. We have many memories having fun on the farm.
Erin Kinney
December 31, 2011
Ryan loved family time in Cushing, Texas on "the farm."
Erin Kinney
December 31, 2011
Nelda Barba
December 31, 2011
Dear Kinney Family...I had the honor of knowing Ryan during my high School years at Conroe High...Ryan was always the silver linning on a cloudy day...the smile that sparkled with goodness and christ-like care for all he met...He was everyone's friend...He was a true blessing to all who knew him...He will be truely missed and continue to be loved in our hearts..God has called him to walk the streets of gold and dine to the right of our Father and his smile continues to shine warmth down on our shoulders as we continue on our paths... that will cross his someday...until we see you again dear friend...
Linda and Tommy Feagin
December 30, 2011
We are deeply saddened to hear about the loss of our sweet friend, Ryan. Tommy and I truly enjoyed the time we spent working with him at the clothing store. We send our prayers to you all in this time of sorrow. The world was a more joyful place with Ryan around.
Evelyn Patton
December 30, 2011
Erin, My heart breaks for you and your family. This is such unbelievable news. Our prayers go out to you and your children. May God provide peace and comfort. Evelyn and Mark Patton
Mary Strong
December 30, 2011
Ryan was the happiest person I ever met in my life. He was my co-worker for a short period and he had a wonderful personality and he made me smile and laugh every time I saw him in the store. I will miss him and send my prayers to you and your children.
December 30, 2011
The star family is missing a bright star and we all are missing your wit and smiles that lights up the room everyday you were here with us. Your missed and we will never forget you and our prayers to your family.. The love of your family was shown every time you spoke about them. Prayers to you all.
Ryan Kinney
December 30, 2011
Russell and Denise Mallory
December 29, 2011
Erin,
We are so very saddened at the passing of Ryan. Remembering his wonderful smile, sweet personality and Godly manner brings precious memories of his days with our Lindale youth. He was an amazing youth director and his influence will last a lifetime. Praying for God's healing peace for you and your family.
Robert Opel
December 29, 2011
Ms Kinney, Todd, Cory, Erin,
My deepest sympathies are with you.
Ryan was always a true, true friend.
Some of my favorite memories are spending time with Ryan and Roy in the woods across from your house, running as fast as we could with one of us in the little red wagon down the trails, each taking a turn, then hauling lumber in the wagon to build the tree house fort, Weekends spent with your family and Ryan was always such a blessing.
Roy and I were so lucky to have had Ryan as our friend.
Jerry &Carolyn Garrett
December 29, 2011
December 29, 2011
Dear Aunt Betty, Erin, Megan, Collin and Family:
We are devastated by the loss of Ryan. When we think of Ryan, we think of laughter. His smile lit up a room. You are in our hearts and prayers. We know Ryan is in heaven and having a great time seeing his dad and others that have gone before him. May God bless you and give you peace.
Love,
Erica Reina
December 29, 2011
Dear Kinney Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Debbie Etheridge
December 29, 2011
Erin,
Our hearts are heavy in hearing the news of your sweet Ryan. Ryan will always have a special place in my heart because he meant so much to Zach and his friends, and had such a positive impact in Zach's spiritual growth. Our church couldn't have asked for a more loving, caring, and dynamic youth minister. Zach, Sarah, and I send our love to you, Megan, and Collin. We will keep you in our prayers. In His Love, Debbie Etheridge, Coppell, Texas
Cynthia Reed John
December 29, 2011
Erin, I am so sorry for your loss. Ryan was such a wonderful guy and I have many fond memories of him. May God be with you and your children during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Melody Tryon
December 29, 2011
Dear Kinney Family,
I am so grieved by your loss and cannot imagine what you are going through right now. I worked with Ryan at Bank of America for 6 years and he always had a smile on his face and was just an absolute pleasure to work with, I never had a bad day when he was there. I pray for comfort and peace for your family.
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27
Jenny Ganson
December 29, 2011
Aunt Betty, Erin, Megan, Collin, Todd and Corey,
My heart breaks for all of you. I am in such shock over the loss of my dear cousin. I cherish all of our memories together. Just the thought of Ryan makes me smile. When Ryan was in a room there was laughter and joy at all times. We are so devastated for your loss. We wish we could have attended Ryan's services. You are in our prayers. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you.
Much love and sympathy,
Jim, Jenny, Raegan & Garrett Ganson
Linda Flowers
December 29, 2011
No one could have asked for a better neighbor. It was always such a pleasure to talk to Ryan whether it be about our families or exchanging gardening tips. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family in this most difficult time.
Brian Newhouse
December 29, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with Kinney family. I knew Ryan in high school and he was the nicest person that anyone could meet. He always had a great attitude and a smile on his face. I'll be pryaing for you Erin during this difficult time.
Julie Lomax
December 29, 2011
I had the pleasure of working with Ryan at Star Furniture. Within days he seemed a seasoned Veteran on the Sales floor. They are so many things that remind me of Ryan on a daily basis. All of us were looking forward to Ryan's return. The news of his passing was a blow to all of us. Ryan touched all of us with his beautiful never ending smile and quick wit. With time your tears will turn to smiles with your fond memories of Ryan. My prayers of comfort and peace are with your family at this time.
Kari Tyson-Moroz
December 29, 2011
Ryan was always such a happy person and had the ability to light up a room. Our prayers go out to Erin and their children during this difficult time. May God be with you.
Sonja Choate
December 29, 2011
Dear Kinney family,
I'm saddened to hear of Ryan's passing. We lived in the neighborhood next to Ryan's during high school. Ryan was a kind and true friend to my brother. May God bring you peace during this time. You are all in my thoughts and prayers today.
Sincerely,
Sonja Choate
Tamara Garlick
December 29, 2011
I have so many wonderful memories of Ryan. As noted by all, he had a contagious smile that radiated God's love. He is a true blessing! My heart is heavy with sadness, but I will rejoice when I see him again in the kingdom of Heaven. My prayers are with all of the family.
Rene Loftin
December 28, 2011
Kinney Family,
It was my privilege to know Ryan and to have fond memories of him as kids. I never knew him to not have a smile onhis face or a spring in his step... he was a truly remarkable soul. You are all in my prayers!!
~ Rene' Baumann Loftin
Wade Paddock
December 28, 2011
I knew Ryan in high school. I have fond memories of the smiles and laughter that Ryan brought into a room. His positive attitude was a joy to be around and remembered. I pray that God gives your family comfort thru this difficult time. I am sorry for your loss... a husband, a son, a brother, a father, and a friend. I will look forward to catching up with him in Heaven one day.
Tamara Alford
December 28, 2011
Dearest Erin...My heart was filled with sadness upon my hearing of Ryan's passing. May God's presence offer you comfort during this difficult time. May His Grace and Mercy guide you to a Peace that only the Father can provide. When you grow weary, may you find the stregnth that you need in God's Word and may God's Angels surround you and uplift you and your family. Ryan was a BEAUTIFUL spirit and I was Blessed to have known him. Erin, if there is anything that you or the kids need I am right across the street so please do not hesitate letting me know.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, the kids and the Kinney Family,
Tamara, Jazmin and Darius Alford
megan kinney
December 28, 2011
I love you daddy i miss you. I am very proud of you!!!! I love you from head to toe. Love you zillionz
The Austin's
December 28, 2011
Erin, Megan and Collin,
We are so sorry for your loss. Ryan could brighten any situation. We have so many wonderful memories we shared as neighbors. We are so blessed that god put your family in our lives. When I look out into my backyard I always think of Ryan. We love you and will forever miss Ryan. Our comfort is knowing that he is in the arms god and is at peace.
Love,
Gary, Kay and Mark
Stephanye Scott Denison
December 28, 2011
I am so sad to hear about Ryan's passing........such a loss! I pray that God will bring comfort and healing to his family every day. He was always so so kind and caring to everyone. What an amazing guy!!!!!
Jennifer Loosier Hilder
December 28, 2011
Erin and all the Kinney Family,
Ryan was a shinning light representing God's love in everything he did. You will all be in my prayers.
Lisa Horton
December 28, 2011
Mrs. Kinney and Erin,
I am so sorry to hear about Ryan's passing. He was an absolute ray of sunshine and I hold so many dear memories of him. He was a wonderful friend and always seemed to be smiling or laughing. I will be remembering you and the entire family in my prayers. Lisa Hamilton Horton (Pueblo, CO)
December 28, 2011
Mrs. Betty so sorry to hear about the loss of your son Ryan. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
Debbie Mcadoo
December 28, 2011
Ryan could find the good in anyone and the bright spot in any dark situation. Although we lost touch after high school, the news of his passing makes my heart ache. I will never forget a comment that he made to me and a couple of other people after his dad's funeral more than twenty years ago. "I'm sad that he's gone, but I have to keep living and make the best of things, I guess"
Dale and Alysia Pacovsky
December 28, 2011
Erin,
May God continue to bless you, Megan and Collin. We will all miss Ryan's larger than life smile and his kind nature. He was always so kind to everyone and I know Monica always has a blast hanging out with your family. Erin, you were there for me when I was new to the area and I am here for you now. Please know that you are a dear friend and will never be alone. We will always be here for you and your wonderful children.
May God continue to put love in your heart for now and always.
Billy Coleman
December 28, 2011
Mrs Betty, I'm sorry to here of your loss of your son. We will keep you and Ryan's family in our prayers.
Joe Carroll
December 28, 2011
My thoughts and prayers to the Kinney family. I had the privilege of knowing Ryan in high school and college. He was a kind and generous person and will be remembered with fond memories.
Mark and Dinah Stevens
December 28, 2011
Betty, We are very sorry to hear about your loss of Ryan. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Ryan's family.
Kevin Alvarado
December 28, 2011
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I have such great memories with Ryan. He was a wonderful, caring person. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Lisa Giuffre Gwyn
December 28, 2011
Erin, I'm so sorry to hear the news. You and Ryan were dear friends of mine and he will be missed by so many. I have great memories of him from Flare staff at Conroe High. His smile and wonderful sense of humor always put me in a great mood. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Lisa Giuffre Gwyn
Heather Long
December 28, 2011
Ryan, you were one of my very best friends in high school. You have always made me smile when I think of you...and that will continue. I love you and miss you already. I just know God has a special place for you in His kingdom and He has called you home for that reason.
Erin, know that in these difficult times, you have friends, family and the love of our Jesus to see you through this. God put strong women on this planet, such as yourself, to be an example to others. My thoughts and many prayers are with you and your family.
Jay Self
December 28, 2011
Betty,Todd, Cory and family, I am so sorry to hear of Ryans passing. You are in our prayers.
Janet Waldie
December 28, 2011
Dave and I are so sorry for your loss, as Ryan's death is a loss for all who knew him. We will remember his smile and kindness always. Janet Waldie
Staci (McHam) Smith
December 28, 2011
Some of my most favorite memories of high school are with Ryan. He was just a sweet person with a good soul. Erin~I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you
Maria Stowell
December 28, 2011
I was so saddened to hear of Ryan's passing. I didn't know him well but, we worked together at Star Furniture. He was kind and friendly and always had a smile on his face. His family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Melissa Claybrook
December 28, 2011
Erin,
Though the world has lost a very kind and thoughtful man, I know you and your family has lost so much more. My heart goes out to you and I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I am so sorry for your loss.
God Bless you and keep you strong.
With Love,
Melissa
(Conroe, TX)
Suzy Haws
December 28, 2011
I only knew Ryan for a short time while he worked at Star Furniture. He was delightful to be around and always had the biggest smile. We will miss him and I am so sorry for your loss and you are all in my thoughs and prayers.
lindsay k.
December 28, 2011
i don't know your family, but i live in the same area as you. if you need any help with a meal or anything, please send me an email. i am so sorry for your loss. lifting you all up in prayer during this very difficult time.
Wayne Altman
December 28, 2011
To the Kinney family. Ryan was in the same scout troop as my brothers and I. We had such an amazing time growing up together.
Amazing friend during those years to me, and I will not forget that.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences..
Kim Lisenbe
December 28, 2011
I knew Ryan and Erin in high school. Both were always kind and a joy to be around. I am so sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Kim (Lisenbe)Babcock
Laurie Hayward Rock
December 28, 2011
Erin,
I am praying for you and your family. I pray that you feel the love and prayers and know that you are wrapped in God's arms.
God bless.
Love, Laurie
Chuck and Cindy Nelson
December 27, 2011
Sweet Kinney family,
What a joy and a gift Ryan was to us! Laughter always was present and filled the atmosphere when we were together. The memories of being with you all come flooding back and each one puts a smile on our faces. We know this separation is for a short time until we meet again in our true eternal home where the laughter and smiles surely, will never end. We love you and are always here to lean upon.
Bill Parks & Family
December 27, 2011
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
ML
December 27, 2011
Dear Kinney family. You have my deepest heartfelt condolences over your loss. May God be with you to bring you comfort and peace through this difficult time. He promises at Isaiah 61:2; 25:8 to actually do away with death forever ... will certainly wipe the tears from all faces.
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