Ryan Powell Baker

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ryan Powell Baker, who left us on February 11, 2025, at the age of 30. Ryan was an extraordinary individual, and his life had a profound impact on all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His vibrant spirit, boundless energy, and creativity will forever be cherished by his family and friends.

Ryan was an elite swimmer throughout high school, a talented baseball player, and an all-around passionate sports fan. While his athletic achievements were impressive, to his siblings, Ryan was much more than his accomplishments. He was their confidante, their best friend, and often their partner-in-mischief, bringing laughter and joy to every moment they shared. His love for sports, particularly his enthusiasm for his favorite teams, was infectious, and he never hesitated to share his opinions or excitement, whether on the field, at home, or with friends. Ryan's competitive nature was so over-the-top that he could turn even a simple game of putt-putt or Monopoly into an all-out championship event, complete with trash talk, dramatic play-by-plays, and the kind of pressure you'd expect at the World Cup final. 

In addition to his athletic pursuits, Ryan had a sharp mathematical mind and a deep passion for architecture. He was fascinated by the intricacies of design and loved exploring how structures came together—whether it was through detailed drawings or the application of mathematical principles. This love for precision and creativity shaped the way he saw the world. 

Ryan also had a love for reading, particularly the works of Stephen King and Stephen Hawking, reflecting his curious and adventurous mind. He was also an avid movie and TV fan, always eager to share his top picks with anyone who would listen, often claiming each new discovery was “definitely in the top 10 of all time.” 

Known for his bold, vibrant sense of style, Ryan would never be seen in anything dull. His colorful clothes and loud prints were an expression of his lively personality, announcing his presence before he even spoke. His creativity extended beyond fashion—he loved to paint and had a deep appreciation for music of all genres, constantly drawing inspiration from the world around him.

Ryan’s passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many others whose lives he touched. We ask that you remember him not for the way his life ended, but for the way it was lived—full of passion, laughter, and love. If love could have saved him, Ryan would have lived forever.

Ryan is survived by his loving mother, Deborah Powell Baker; his father, Sammy Baker; and his siblings, Jensen Baker and Christopher Hudgins. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandmother, Betty Jean Leubecker. 

As we say, "farewell for now," we tightly embrace the memories of his laughter and the warmth of his love. We love you Ryan, forever and always.

Ryan's family is having a memorial service on Monday, February 17th, 2025, from 1PM to 3PM at the Cremation Society of SC - Westville Funerals on 6010 White Horse Rd, Greenville, SC 29611.