Rylan Jon Hyder

Rylan Jon Hyder, age 15, of Crossville, TN, passed away at his home on August 3, 2026.

He was born on December 22, 2010, in Knoxville, TN, son of Jonathan Darrell Hyder and Nicole Kmet Hyder.

There are some souls who change the world without ever speaking loudly. Rylan was one of those rare and extraordinary people. Though his journey was filled with challenges that most of us could never imagine, he faced life with a courage that inspired everyone who knew him. He was a true warrior—a hero whose strength was measured not by the battles he fought, but by the love he gave so freely.

Rylan taught us what unconditional love truly looks like. He showed us compassion without limits, joy in the smallest moments, and a resilience that left a lasting mark on countless hearts. Through his life, strangers became friends, communities became family, and people from across America came together because of the incredible light he carried. His story reminds us that even a life touched by hardship can be breathtakingly beautiful. In the midst of trials, he gave others hope. In moments of uncertainty, he brought people together. He taught us to slow down, to love more deeply, to be kinder, and to treasure every moment we are given. While our hearts are broken by his passing, we find comfort in knowing that his legacy will continue to live on in every life he touched. His love did not end with his final breath—it lives on in the compassion he inspired, the friendships he created, and the countless people who are better because they knew his story. We will forever remember Rylan for his beautiful spirit, his unwavering strength, and the extraordinary way he brought out the very best in all of us. Though his time with us was far too short, the love he gave and the lessons he taught will last a lifetime. He will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and never forgotten.

We love and will miss you so much sweet Goo, love mom, dad, and bubby.

He is survived by his parents, Jonathan and Nicole Hyder; a very special brother, Brayden Hyder; brother, Gage Eldridge; paternal grandparent, Darrell Hyder; maternal grandmother, Suann Kmet; paternal great grandmother, Norma Patterson; uncle, Casey Hyder; aunt and uncle, Jennifer and Anthony Potts; special cousin, Courtney Turner; cousins, Callen Potts, Caysen Potts, and Haelyn Potts; and host of friends.

Rylan is preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Charlotte Hyder; paternal great grandfather, John Roy Hyder; paternal great grandmother, Janelle Gilliland; and maternal great grandparents, Edward and Gertrude Kmet.

Funeral Services will be held at the Cumberland County High School Auditorium on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 1:00 PM with burial to follow at Grassy Cove Cemetery. Family will receive friends from 10:00 to 1:00 PM prior to the service.

The family request donations be made to Make A Wish Foundation of East Tennessee. The Wishing Place 190 Hayfield Rd. Knoxville, TN 37922.

Arrangements and Care provided by Bilbrey Funeral Home and Cremation Service.