Ryan Scott Cradic

Ryan Scott Cradic, of Johnson City, passed away at 42 years old on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, after a courageous 17-month battle with glioblastoma.

Ryan was a friend to many and loved his family beyond words. He was loyal, honest, genuine, had a unique sense of humor and was always ready to lend a helping hand. He will be remembered as a dedicated father, husband, brother, son and friend.

After graduating from University School, Ryan joined the United States Army. His basic training was at Fort Leonard Wood (Missouri), was stationed at Fort Riley (Kansas), and trained in Fort Irwin (California) before being deployed to Iraq. During his tour overseas, he worked as a combat engineer and earned several awards, including the National Defense Service Medal and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal. After returning from active duty, Ryan graduated from Northeast State and ETSU.

After graduation, Ryan became a firefighter, working alongside his brothers and sisters at the Johnson City Fire Department for over six years.

He was committed to supporting his family both physically and spiritually. While attending Grace Fellowship Church, Ryan was honored to baptize his oldest child, Noah. In his free time, he loved fishing and running. Ryan sought tranquility outdoors and greatly enjoyed listening to live music with his wife, LeAnn. He particularly loved playing video games with his son, Noah, and swimming with his daughter, Maddie.

He is preceded in death by: grandparents, Claude and Thelma Cradic, Beulah Bryant, and Fred McInturff; brother-in-law, Charles Ray Patton III; and cousins, Chad Vance and Luc Vance.

He is survived by: wife, LeAnn Cradic; children, Noah Cradic, and Maddie Cradic; parents, Scott (Kay) Cradic, and Sharon (Roger) Gardner; parents-in-law, Chuck and Carol Patton; siblings, Tara (Scott) Higgins, and Benjamin Cradic; stepbrother, Bart (Becky) Gardner; aunts and uncles, Wanda Vance, Connie Booth, Rick McInturff, Teresa Thomas, Steve (Suzy) Cradic, and Keith (Janey) Cradic; nieces and nephews, Hunter, Shian (Derek), Abbi, Kynlee, Kenda, Sarah, and Chloe; cousins, Kevin, Brian, Justin, Drew, Kurt, John, Cody, Brandy, and Amy.

Ryan had an incredible group of special friends, family, and caregivers by his side during his battle with glioblastoma. Special thanks to the Johnson City Fire Department for their tireless work to bring the community together around Ryan, making sure he felt loved and the family felt supported. Sincere gratitude to the congregation of Central Baptist Church and all the many individuals for their kind words and constant prayer.

Ryan's departure left a void in the lives of many, but his memory lives on in all our hearts. His legacy of love and zest for life continue on through his family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, July 9, 2023, at Cherokee Creek Farm, 359 Taylor Bridge Rd, Jonesborough, TN 37659. The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, followed by a memorial service and honors ceremony beginning at 4:00 PM. Service will be officiated by Pastor Joel Cook of Marvins Chapel Methodist Church, where Ryan helped make the world’s best apple butter most every Autumn. Honors to be performed by the Johnson City Fire Department. Afterward, there will be a reception with refreshments where attendees are encouraged to share stories and celebrate Ryan's life.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Ryan's honor to the Johnson City Firefighter Association, PO Box 4540 JC TN 37602.