The Abingdon, Virginia, community is heartbroken over the passing of Ryan Halsey, a devoted firefighter, skilled pilot, and beloved friend whose compassion, courage, and zest for life touched countless hearts. His untimely death has left a deep void among family, friends, and colleagues who remember him as a man of integrity, laughter, and unwavering dedication to service.
Ryan proudly served with Green Spring Volunteer Fire & Rescue, where he was recognized for his bravery, leadership, and selfless commitment to protecting others. Whether battling flames, responding to emergencies, or comforting those in distress, he exemplified the true spirit of a first responder — steady, reliable, and fearless in the face of danger.
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His fellow firefighters recall his infectious sense of humor and calm under pressure, qualities that made him both a trusted colleague and a source of strength for others. “Ryan could always make us laugh, even on the hardest days,” one team member shared. “He never hesitated to help — no matter the time or the challenge.”
Beyond firefighting, Ryan followed his passion for aviation. He worked as a pilot with PSA Airlines and had previously served as a pilot in the United States Air Force, where he displayed the same focus, discipline, and sense of duty that defined his life. Flying, for Ryan, was more than a career — it was a calling that reflected his adventurous spirit and love for exploring new horizons.
Friends and loved ones describe him as a “young man with an old soul” — someone who found joy in life’s simplest moments, from playing the fiddle to sharing laughter around a campfire. His warmth, authenticity, and generosity drew people to him wherever he went, leaving lasting impressions on everyone who crossed his path.
Those close to him remember his ability to make others feel valued and heard. “Ryan wasn’t just a friend — he was family,” one friend reflected. “His smile could light up a room, and his kindness was boundless.” A mentor echoed that sentiment, saying, “Ryan lived more in 31 years than many do in a lifetime. From firefighting to flying, reenacting, and mining — he embraced life with passion. Rest easy, brother. We’ll take it from here.”
Visitation for Ryan Halsey will take place on Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at Green Springs Church (22007 Green Spring Church Road, Abingdon, VA). Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday at 12:00 PM, followed by interment at Forest Hills Mausoleum at 1:45 PM.
As Abingdon mourns this profound loss, Ryan is remembered as a man whose courage matched his kindness, whose laughter brightened every room, and whose legacy of service and love will continue to inspire for generations to come.
Rest in peace, Ryan Halsey — a hero in the air, on the ground, and forever in the hearts of those you touched. 🕊️